Avigdor Lieberman Reveals Offers to Join Israel Beytenu Were Rejected by Key Politicians

Avigdor Lieberman, chairman of the Israel Beytenu party, disclosed in an interview on Channel 12's "Avri and Sharky" program that he invited several politicians, including Gilad Erdan, Yuli Edelstein, and Hili Tropper, to join his party, but all declined. He denied reports of plans to ally with Yamina leader Naftali Bennett and criticized Erdan, who recently founded a new party, saying that voting for Erdan effectively supports Benjamin Netanyahu as prime minister.

Lieberman reiterated his main goal for the upcoming elections: replacing the current government. He dismissed rumors of conflicts among opposition leaders as "lies and fabrications," emphasizing their commitment to cooperation and responsible decision-making after the elections. He stressed the importance of victory and claimed to have a formula for forming the next government without drama.

Addressing security issues, Lieberman criticized the current military strategy, accusing the government of planning withdrawals from Gaza and Lebanon despite ongoing threats from Hezbollah and Hamas. He called the situation a prolonged war of attrition with heavy casualties but no decisive outcome.

Regarding potential coalition partners, Lieberman expressed respect for Yair Golan, leader of the Democratic Party, highlighting shared policy goals such as establishing a state inquiry commission, universal conscription, core curriculum education, limiting the prime minister's term to two, and drafting a constitution. He also mentioned recent talks with Ayelet Shaked, praising her experience and wishing her success.

Lieberman’s comments underline his efforts to consolidate opposition forces ahead of the elections, while distancing himself from Netanyahu allies and emphasizing a pragmatic approach to government formation.