Avigdor Lieberman Criticizes Defense Minister Katz Over Social Media Video and Cabinet Remarks

Former Israeli Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman sharply criticized current Defense Minister Israel Katz following a controversial video Katz posted on social media and statements made in the cabinet against IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir. In a radio interview on August 11, 2026, Lieberman said Katz should have been dismissed immediately, accusing him of undermining both Israel's international standing and the military. Lieberman stated, "This is not a defense minister concerned with security, but one acting solely for the sake of the Likud primaries." He condemned the political backing Katz receives despite attacks on the Chief of Staff, whom Katz himself appointed.

Lieberman also linked the current government's policies to harming soldiers, emphasizing the need to cut benefits and support for draft dodgers. He criticized the coalition of Goldknopf, Deri, and Netanyahu for damaging those serving in the military, warning that without equal burden-sharing, Israel cannot achieve victory or economic growth.

The day before, the Likud party announced that Katz would be placed on the party list without having to compete in the upcoming primaries, alongside ministers Gideon Sa'ar and Haim Katz. This decision, made just a week before the primaries, was justified by the party as allowing Katz to focus on defense matters rather than politics. Sa'ar's placement is part of a coalition agreement, and Haim Katz is secured a spot as party center chairman.