Avigdor Lieberman Criticizes Defense Minister Katz Over Political Conduct and Calls for His Dismissal

Avigdor Lieberman, leader of the Israel Beytenu party, sharply criticized Defense Minister Israel Katz in a radio interview on May 26, 2026, following a controversial video Katz released ahead of the Likud primaries. Lieberman accused Katz of harming Israel's diplomatic efforts and the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), and expressed disappointment that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had not fired Katz in response. "I would have expected the first announcement after the stupid video by the defense minister, which harms our international efforts and the IDF, to be his dismissal," Lieberman said. He added that Katz appears to prioritize his political ambitions and the Likud primaries over national security.

Lieberman also condemned attacks against IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, stating the government fails to provide him with necessary support. He emphasized the importance of equal burden-sharing in military service as essential for Israel's security and economic future, advocating for cuts to benefits for those who do not serve. Lieberman criticized ongoing claims that the Chief of Staff is politically motivated, calling it "madness" that both Netanyahu and Katz continue such rhetoric.

Addressing regional security, Lieberman warned Israel to take seriously the emerging Sunni alliance between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey, which he described as a failure of the current government formed after October 7. He noted that while these countries deny targeting Iran, other statements from Pakistani officials raise concerns. He also mentioned the possibility of Egypt joining the alliance as an additional challenge.

Lieberman criticized the government's overall performance, saying "three years of war with no decisive victory on any front," and accused Netanyahu's administration of failing in foreign relations and security. He highlighted the need for political change, confirming his commitment to forming a broad opposition bloc to replace the current government. He expressed support for Yair Golan's outreach to the Arab sector and ruled out cooperation with the Ra'am party, calling for a national coalition rather than a sectoral one.

Concluding, Lieberman set two main goals: to replace the current government and to become prime minister, in that order. He also warned against vote splitting among smaller parties, which he believes could weaken the opposition bloc and inadvertently benefit Netanyahu.