Netanyahu Warns Voters Ahead of Election, Criticizes Lieberman

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has issued a strong warning to voters ahead of the upcoming election, particularly addressing the Russian-speaking community. He described the vote as a "fateful moment" for the country's future and thanked immigrants from the former Soviet Union for their contributions to Israel's development and security. Netanyahu, leader of the Likud party, urged them to vote only for Likud.

The Prime Minister focused on national security issues, reminding the public that he appointed General Roman Gofman as the new head of the Mossad, citing Gofman's merits and personal qualities. Gofman has now assumed the top position within Israel's security apparatus.

Netanyahu specifically criticized Avigdor Lieberman, head of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, warning voters against supporting him. He accused Lieberman of breaking with the right-wing camp, supporting the previous coalition government alongside the Islamist Ra'am party led by Mansour Abbas, and acting as a financial facilitator for that government. Netanyahu asserted that Lieberman now systematically participates in the removal of right-wing cabinets.

Furthermore, Netanyahu condemned Lieberman's recent suggestion of involving Jordanian military units in maintaining order and security in Judea and Samaria, calling it a "direct and extraordinary threat to state security." He stressed that transferring control of key areas to foreign Arab forces is unacceptable.

As an alternative, Netanyahu proposed a strong right-wing government under his leadership. He highlighted his close coordination with U.S. President Donald Trump, who has publicly reiterated his support, stating their joint efforts aim to neutralize the Iranian nuclear and military threat. Earlier reports indicated that the White House views Netanyahu's persistent efforts to gain Trump's public support as a "sign of desperation."