Avigdor Lieberman Accuses Government of Blocking IDF Action Against Hamas Militants Near Gaza Border

Avigdor Lieberman, chairman of the Israel Beytenu party, sharply criticized the Israeli government's security policy regarding Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Speaking from Karam Shalom after visiting a U.S. base designated to host an international force in Gaza, Lieberman claimed that IDF forces identified about 50 Hamas-affiliated Nukhba militants conducting a raid training exercise near a Jewish settlement two nights ago. He alleged that while field commanders requested immediate action, political leadership ordered them not to engage or fire any shots.

Lieberman warned that this approach reflects a return to the failed strategy that led to the October 7 massacre. He accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of relinquishing Israel's security decision-making autonomy, stating Israel cannot act without U.S. coordination. Lieberman further criticized the flow of goods into Gaza, alleging that 20% of the value ends up in Hamas's hands, with Netanyahu consenting to transfer $400 million to Gaza suppliers. He claimed Hamas controls the supply chain, forcing Israeli suppliers to buy goods primarily through Turkey, laundering Hamas's money there.

Following a meeting with regional security coordinators at Kibbutz Be'eri, Lieberman said he received alarming intelligence that is not shared with the public or the security cabinet. He accused Netanyahu of withholding critical information from both the cabinet and the Israeli public. Lieberman concluded by declaring the current government unfit to govern given these security failures and the lack of transparency.

The controversy highlights ongoing tensions within Israel's political and military leadership over how to handle Hamas threats and the Gaza situation, with Lieberman demanding greater transparency and a more assertive security stance.