Avigdor Lieberman Rejects Coalition with Ra'am, Criticizes Likud as Ultra-Orthodox Lite

Avigdor Lieberman, chairman of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, dismissed discussions about the identity of the next prime minister, emphasizing the need to focus on ousting the current government formed after October 7. In a radio interview on 103FM, Lieberman criticized Gadi Eizenkot's suggestion that smaller opposition parties should not insist on the premiership, calling it a distraction from the main goal of removing the "deserters' alliance" and the current government.

Lieberman accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of diverting attention by fueling debates over leadership order instead of addressing substantive issues. He also criticized internal opposition disputes for benefiting the Likud party. Reflecting on his past role as Likud's CEO, Lieberman stated that today's Likud has become "an ultra-Orthodox lite party," and he has no intention of working there again.

Regarding potential cooperation with the Ra'am party, Lieberman categorically rejected any partnership, stating that after October 7, Ra'am cannot be part of any coalition, either inside or outside. He predicted a decisive victory for Zionist parties, envisioning a "Hungarian scenario" where they will secure an absolute majority and form a national Zionist government, contrasting it with the current "sectorial government" of the "deserters' alliance" including Goldknopf, Deri, and Netanyahu.

On the issue of Iran, Lieberman criticized Tehran's unwillingness to compromise on its nuclear program, control of the Strait of Hormuz, and support for regional proxies, accusing Iran of merely buying time. He also condemned the handling of American decisions regarding potential strikes on Iran, calling Israel a "banana republic" where former President Trump announces no attack plans and others speak on Israel's behalf without authority.