Lieberman Denies Transferring Funds, Criticizes Netanyahu's Policies

Avigdor Lieberman, head of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, addressed widespread claims circulating on social media and in political propaganda, including accusations of transferring 53 billion shekels to the Arab sector, ceding Judea and Samaria to Jordanian control, and aiming to make Israel a non-Jewish state. In an interview with Vesti, Lieberman refuted these assertions, particularly the claim about the 53 billion shekels. He stated that Prime Minister Netanyahu himself had previously boasted about allocating significant budgets to the Arab sector. Lieberman also pointed out that the government program he initiated for the development of the Arab sector and crime prevention, Government Resolution No. 550, remains active under Netanyahu's administration, with current government spending exceeding his tenure. He cited Knesset research center data indicating 5.6 billion shekels were allocated during his time as Finance Minister, primarily for infrastructure and crime prevention, while Netanyahu's government has reportedly invested over 10 billion shekels in the program.

Lieberman also criticized the current leadership's attitude towards Russian-speaking immigrants, citing a recent incident where Diaspora Affairs Minister Amichai Chikli mocked a Russian accent. He suggested this reflects a broader disregard for the community, noting the absence of Russian-speaking representatives in prominent positions on the Likud party's electoral list and past attempts to alter the Law of Return. He also addressed claims by the Shas party that he intends to make Israel a non-Jewish state, attributing such rhetoric to a continuation of negative attitudes towards Soviet-era immigrants, referencing past statements by Shas spiritual leader Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef.

Discussing the conflict between secular and ultra-Orthodox sectors, Lieberman emphasized a fundamental dispute over the state's character, advocating for a state guided by science and modern institutions rather than religious dictates. He expressed concern over the increasing involvement of religious leadership in state affairs and the questioning of Zionism's value.

Regarding security, Lieberman revealed that a plan to eliminate Hamas leadership, including Ismail Haniyeh, was prepared during his tenure but was blocked by Netanyahu. He believes implementing this plan could have prevented the events of October 7th. He also reiterated his plan for Judea and Samaria, which involves ending the Oslo Accords, dismantling the Palestinian Authority, and transferring civil responsibility for Areas A and B to Jordan while Israel retains full security control, to prevent the establishment of a Palestinian state and potential US recognition within two and a half years.

Lieberman firmly stated that Yisrael Beiteinu will not join a government led by Netanyahu or form a coalition with ultra-Orthodox parties, nor will it rely on Arab parties. He aims to form a Zionist coalition focused on universal conscription, limiting religious influence, and preserving Israel as a secular, liberal state. He also urged Russian-speaking voters to participate in elections, emphasizing their potential to significantly influence the outcome.