Israeli Diaspora Minister Shikli Labels Lieberman a 'Chaos Agent' Over Shin Bet Election Interference Claims

Israeli Diaspora Minister Amichai Shikli sharply criticized Yisrael Beiteinu leader Avigdor Lieberman following Lieberman's allegations that the Shin Bet security service might interfere in the upcoming elections. In a radio interview on 103fm, Shikli dismissed these claims as irresponsible and unfounded, calling Lieberman "one of the biggest charlatans in Israeli politics" and a "chaos agent." He condemned the conspiracy accusations against Shin Bet chief David Zini as very serious and inappropriate.

Shikli praised Zini's leadership, highlighting the agency's intense operations tracking down terrorists involved in the October 7 attacks in Gaza. He noted Zini's efforts to resist irrelevant agendas within the Shin Bet, including his opposition to recognizing Pride Month in the agency.

Regarding the investigation into leaks about Operation Roaring Lion, Shikli defended the interrogation of journalists exposed to sensitive security information, stating that questioning unauthorized recipients of classified military data is justified. On the topic of legislation affecting the ultra-Orthodox community, Shikli downplayed sensational headlines, emphasizing a significant gap between media noise and the practical impact of the laws. He stressed that temporary orders on draft evaders apply only to those with regulated status and expressed support for drafting Haredim, dismissing claims about "draft evasion laws" as propaganda.

Shikli also commented on a letter from IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir concerning the detention of draft evaders, stating he does not believe the military should engage in political discourse. He urged military officials to refrain from political involvement and rejected the notion that the legislative measures would harm the IDF's readiness.