Avigdor Liberman Criticizes Netanyahu and Likud, Calls for New Political Direction

In a recent interview on the "Kipot Barzel" program by Serugim, Avigdor Liberman, leader of Yisrael Beiteinu, sharply criticized the current state of the Likud party and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Liberman argued that Likud has lost its ideological path, describing it as "a collection of self-interested individuals" rather than a continuation of the Revisionist Zionist legacy. He accused Netanyahu of assembling a list based solely on personal loyalty, predicting it will lead to electoral defeat.

Liberman also addressed key national issues such as the economic deficit and the contentious military draft law. He linked the draft law to broader social and economic challenges, emphasizing the need for universal conscription and integration into core education and the workforce. Highlighting the defense budget's strain, he noted Israel has surpassed 180 billion shekels in defense spending, with a 100 billion shekel shortfall, underscoring the high cost of maintaining reserve forces compared to a standing army.

Responding to accusations of being anti-religious, Liberman highlighted his personal life in the mixed community of Nokdim, where his religious wife and children coexist with secular family members. He differentiated between the religious public and the ultra-Orthodox establishment, criticizing the latter for prioritizing power, honor, and money over genuine Judaism.

On security, Liberman reiterated his past warnings about Hamas and advocated for strategic changes in the Israel Defense Forces, including the creation of a missile corps capable of independent action without U.S. coordination. He called on the national religious community to reconsider their political alliances, inviting them to find a home in Yisrael Beiteinu.

Finally, Liberman firmly ruled out any future political cooperation with Netanyahu, stating that Netanyahu's failure to take responsibility after the events of October 7 disqualifies him from leading Israel.