Avigdor Lieberman Advises Ayelet Shaked to Delay Political Return Amid Israel Beytenu Talks

Avigdor Lieberman, chairman of Israel Beytenu, revealed in a recent interview that he has had multiple discussions over the past months with former Justice and Interior Minister Ayelet Shaked regarding her political future. Lieberman said he advised Shaked not to rush back into politics at this time and to continue focusing on her business activities. He also noted that Shaked has not yet decided under which political framework she might return if she chooses to reenter the political arena.

These comments come amid ongoing speculation and reports since April about Shaked potentially joining Israel Beytenu. Earlier this year, reports indicated informal talks between Shaked and Lieberman about a joint run and possible placement on the party list. Shaked also met with activists from the Religious Zionist camp, some urging her to bring a religious-nationalist faction into Israel Beytenu. Shaked had stated she would decide on her political future within weeks.

However, shortly after these reports, Israel Beytenu reportedly decided not to include former Yamina members like Shaked and Avir Kara on their upcoming Knesset list, despite Shaked’s good relationship with Lieberman. Lieberman clarified that his conversations with Shaked were not recruitment attempts but rather recommendations to postpone her political comeback.

Their relationship has seen reversals before; in 2019, Lieberman offered Shaked the second spot on Israel Beytenu’s list and a potential government role, which she declined to remain with the Religious Zionist camp. This background adds context to the current cautious approach in their talks.

With elections approaching in about two and a half months, Lieberman’s statements shed light on behind-the-scenes dynamics and the uncertainty surrounding Shaked’s political plans.