Finance Minister Ze'ev Elkin Reveals Avigdor Lieberman's Offer to Join Israel Beytenu
Translated & summarized from Now 14 by baba
Finance Minister Ze'ev Elkin revealed he received an offer from opposition leader Avigdor Lieberman to join Israel Beytenu with a guaranteed Knesset seat, but he remains committed to Likud despite uncertain primary results. He also apologized for past criticisms of Netanyahu, emphasizing their improved cooperation after the October 7 massacre.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Ze'ev Elkin received an offer from Avigdor Lieberman to join Israel Beytenu with a safe Knesset seat.
- Elkin also got similar offers from other opposition parties to block his government participation.
- He stated he will not leave Likud even if he fails to secure a realistic primary spot.
- Elkin apologized for previous criticisms of Netanyahu, citing changed priorities after October 7.
- He emphasized a closer working relationship with Netanyahu within the cabinet since then.
Finance Minister Ze'ev Elkin disclosed in a Channel 14 interview on August 5, 2026, that he received a dramatic offer from Avigdor Lieberman, leader of the opposition party Israel Beytenu, to join his faction. Elkin explained that this proposal, along with others from opposition parties, aimed to prevent his participation in the current government by promising him a secure spot in the next Knesset. Despite these offers, Elkin firmly stated that even if he does not secure a realistic position in the Likud primaries, he has no intention of leaving the party, declaring, "I am not going anywhere."
During the interview, Elkin also addressed his relationship with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, noting that the October 7 massacre reshaped his priorities and led to a closer working relationship with Netanyahu within the cabinet. He admitted to retracting some previous criticisms of Netanyahu, apologizing for statements that proved inaccurate in light of recent events.
Elkin's revelations come amid ongoing political maneuvering ahead of the 2026 elections, highlighting the tensions within and between parties as they seek to consolidate power. The minister's commitment to Likud despite opposition overtures underscores the complex dynamics shaping Israel's political landscape.
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