Lieberman Outlines Post-Election Stance on Draft Law, Alliances

Avigdor Lieberman, chairman of Yisrael Beiteinu, issued a comprehensive statement Tuesday detailing his positions on key issues following the recent election results. He addressed the contentious draft law, his relationship with Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of the 'Yashar!' party, and the formation of the next government.

Lieberman emphasized that any draft law must be able to pass Supreme Court (Bagatz) scrutiny, stating, "We need to go for a draft law that passes Bagatz." This stance comes amid reports of negotiations with ultra-Orthodox parties, for whom the draft law's legal viability is a prerequisite.

Regarding Gadi Eisenkot, Lieberman declared his full support, "I stand by Eisenkot. I clarified that I am not asking for rotation or mutation." This statement follows agreements within the "change bloc" on key Knesset roles for the 26th Knesset, with Lieberman slated to chair the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee.

Lieberman also outlined his political priorities, advocating for term limits and the appointment of a State Comptroller before other matters. This comes after attorney Michael Ravilo withdrew from the comptroller race, leaving retired judge Yosef Elron as the sole candidate.

He firmly rejected the possibility of a minority government, asserting, "There is no chance for a minority government." Lieberman expressed confidence in forming a 61-seat majority government within a reasonable timeframe to "rebuild all the ruins." His primary objective, he stated, is to "end Netanyahu's rule forever."

Addressing potential coalition partners, Lieberman noted an "opportune moment" for engaging with ultra-Orthodox parties but drew a clear line, "I will not lend a hand to any coalition that relies on Ra'am/the Joint List." He concluded by reiterating his belief in the possibility of forming a government soon, as political negotiations continue and the 26th Knesset is set to be sworn in.