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

In a recent interview on the "Kipot Barzel" program by Serugim, Avigdor Lieberman, leader of Yisrael Beiteinu, sharply criticized the current state of the Likud party and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's leadership. Lieberman claimed that Likud has lost its ideological path and is now merely a collection of self-interested individuals loyal only to Netanyahu personally. He asserted, "There is no Likud today," and accused Netanyahu of building a list destined for defeat by prioritizing blind loyalty over principles.

Lieberman also addressed pressing national issues such as the economic deficit and the contentious military draft law. He emphasized that Yisrael Beiteinu demands equal conscription for all sectors, linking this to broader social integration including core education and workforce entry. Highlighting the defense budget exceeding 180 billion shekels and a 100 billion shekel shortfall, he warned that maintaining a single regular battalion costs as much as ten reserve battalions. He criticized the current government as sectarian and anti-Zionist, accusing ministers like Aryeh Deri and Yoav Goldknopf of focusing solely on their own sectors.

Contrary to accusations of being anti-religious, Lieberman described his own family life as a model of coexistence between religious and secular Jews, living in a mixed community and respecting diverse practices. He distinguished between the religious public and the ultra-Orthodox establishment, which he said has created a new religion based on power, honor, and money, holding the ultra-Orthodox community hostage.

On security, Lieberman reiterated his earlier warnings about Hamas and called for strategic changes in the Israel Defense Forces, including the establishment of a missile corps capable of striking Iran independently. He criticized Netanyahu and former IDF Chief Gadi Eizenkot for rejecting this proposal.

Finally, Lieberman appealed to the national religious community, inviting them to find a political home in Yisrael Beiteinu. He praised their contributions to the country and urged them to reconsider their political alliances. Regarding any future cooperation with Netanyahu, Lieberman was unequivocal: "No matter what happens, I will not sit with Netanyahu. He cannot be prime minister. A person who does not take responsibility after October 7 is unfit to lead Israel."