Avigdor Lieberman Rejects Minority Government, Sets Firm Coalition Conditions

Avigdor Lieberman, chairman of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, declared in a radio interview on August 17, 2026, that he will not support the formation of a minority government relying on fewer than 61 Knesset seats. He emphasized that any attempt to establish a government with only 58 mandates would be met with his refusal to join. Lieberman stated, "I prefer to forgo the prime ministership rather than compromise on principles," underscoring his firm stance against concessions on key issues such as universal conscription and the establishment of a state commission of inquiry.

Lieberman outlined his party's core coalition demands, including a law mandating 100% military or national service for all citizens, including Jews, Muslims, Christians, Druze, and Circassians, with no exemptions. He insisted that even at the cost of leadership positions, these principles would not be compromised.

Responding to reports of a political alliance between him and Naftali Bennett aimed at opposing Gadi Eizenkot, Lieberman strongly denied any such coalition. He accused Eizenkot's associates, particularly Ronen Manlis, of spreading falsehoods, calling them "liars and frauds." On the question of opposition leadership and prime ministerial candidacy, Lieberman said the primary goal is to replace the current government, which he criticized for leading Israel toward a "third destruction," and that decisions about leadership would be addressed after the elections with a formula acceptable to all.

Lieberman also criticized the current political culture, condemning the influence of primaries and social media, particularly TikTok videos, on candidate selection. He revealed he deliberately refrained from interfering in the formation of his party's candidate list, entrusting the process to a committee led by Alis Dobronski, citing past experiences where his involvement was counterproductive.

This interview clarifies Lieberman's uncompromising position ahead of the upcoming elections and signals his intent to shape the coalition formation process around strict principles rather than political expediency.