Liberman Shifts Gear: Compromise on Draft Law to Form New Israel Govt
Avigdor Liberman shifts stance on the ultra-Orthodox draft law to help Gadi Eisenkot form a stable government in Israel.
In a surprising political pivot, Yisrael Beyteinu leader Avigdor Liberman has announced his willingness to be "flexible" regarding the contentious haredi (ultra-Orthodox) IDF draft law. This strategic climb-down is aimed at facilitating the formation of a government led by Yashar leader Gadi Eisenkot, prioritizing national stability over long-standing ideological battles.
Prioritizing the National Interest
Taking to X, Liberman admitted that while the issue of the draft law remains a painful point for him and many others, the current challenges facing the State of Israel demand a pragmatic approach. He emphasized that the national interest must now take precedence over all other considerations.
"On all other issues, it is permissible and desirable to be flexible and compromise and understand that if you try to catch many, you catch none. This includes the issue of the draft law," Liberman stated.
No to Rotational Leadership
Despite his willingness to compromise on policy, Liberman was firm on the structure of leadership. He dismissed rumors regarding a rotational Prime Ministership with Gadi Eisenkot, labeling such claims as "fabrications."
Liberman argued that the rotation mechanism—a practice seen in the era of Shamir and Peres—is a "harmful mechanism" that undermines the proper management of the state. He asserted that whoever successfully forms the government should hold full authority for the entire term, suggesting the concept of rotation should be "consigned to oblivion."
The Strategy for a Stable Coalition
Liberman has called for the creation of a majority government that excludes Arab parties. His proposed strategy involves:
- Forming an initial coalition of 61 Knesset members without the Joint List and Ra'am.
- Potentially adding three or four more members from Likud after the initial formation.
According to Liberman, this is the only viable path to escape the current political "quagmire" and establish a stable government for the next four years.
The Numbers Game: Eisenkot vs. Netanyahu
The shift comes as Gadi Eisenkot seeks to establish a "national emergency government." Eisenkot has already garnered significant support, totaling 67 seats, which includes:
- Jewish-led opposition bloc: 48 seats (comprising Yashar, Together, The Democrats, and Yisrael Beyteinu).
- Ra'am party: 8 seats.
- Joint List: 11 seats.
While Eisenkot acknowledges that the road to the Prime Ministerial position is "still long," the numbers present a stark contrast to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Although Netanyahu's bloc won 53 seats, his endorsement tally has dwindled to 46 seats, largely because his traditional ally, United Torah Judaism (UTJ), refrained from endorsing any candidate.