Avigdor Lieberman Rejects Minority Government and Any Exemptions for Ultra-Orthodox Military Service

Avigdor Lieberman, leader of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, has firmly ruled out joining a minority government and opposed any partial exemptions from military service for ultra-Orthodox Jews. Speaking on Monday amid coalition talks following recent elections, Lieberman emphasized that his party will not participate in any minority government formation. He stated, "There are issues we will not compromise on, whether I serve as prime minister or minister."

Lieberman also addressed reports of internal tensions within the opposition bloc, denying claims of alliances or factions working against each other. He called such reports "blatant lies."

Central to Lieberman's stance is the issue of ultra-Orthodox conscription. He rejected proposals allowing partial exemptions, declaring, "There will be no exemptions, not 30%, not 3%, not even one person." He insisted the next government must enact a universal conscription law applying equally to all Israeli citizens, including Jews, Muslims, Christians, Druze, and Circassians, through military or civilian service pathways.