Avigdor Lieberman Criticizes Israeli Government and Shin Bet Leadership in Podcast Interview

Avigdor Lieberman, chairman of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, sharply criticized the current Israeli government during a podcast interview with Miki Levin on August 7, 2026. He described the government as sectarian, anti-state, and anti-Zionist, accusing leaders such as Netanyahu, Deri, and Goldknopf of harming Israel’s security more than external threats like Iran and Hezbollah. Lieberman accused Netanyahu of prioritizing political survival over national security and accountability for the October 7 massacre, calling the situation "madness."

Lieberman also condemned former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot for meeting with ultra-Orthodox party leaders and questioned the suitability of David Zini as head of the Shin Bet, stating Zini is a brave soldier but unfit for the agency’s leadership. He alleged that political considerations, rather than security needs, influence decisions on protecting individuals. Lieberman described a "poisonous organization" operating within Israel that manipulates public opinion and election outcomes, surpassing foreign interference from Iran, Russia, or China. He called for a new government to empower the Shin Bet with a mandate to investigate these activities.

On the issue of military conscription, Lieberman emphasized that no government will be formed without a universal draft law. He highlighted the economic and social costs of exempting the ultra-Orthodox from service, noting their low employment rates and minimal contribution to state revenues despite comprising 15% of the population. Lieberman proposed strict sanctions for draft evaders, including loss of benefits and restrictions on state employment and driving licenses. He insisted on mandatory core curriculum studies in all educational institutions, including Torah study frameworks.

Lieberman also addressed foreign policy concerns, opposing the sale of F-35 fighter jets to Turkey and uranium enrichment in Saudi Arabia, urging the use of U.S. congressional and Jewish organizational pressure to block such deals. He stressed the importance of protecting Israel’s qualitative military edge and criticized the government’s failure to maintain internal security, citing recent bombings and grenade attacks beyond Arab sectors.

Finally, Lieberman called for constitutional reforms, including limiting the prime minister’s term to two terms and establishing a formal constitution. He reflected on Israel’s historical leaders and the need for decisive military victories to achieve political agreements, warning against prolonged attrition warfare that damages society and the economy.