elections 2026

Liberman: Trump rules Israel via Bibi

Yisrael Beiteinu chairman attacks Netanyahu and claims the American president wants him to remain in office because it allows him to influence Israel through him

Gila Isaacson

OCT 19, 2026 10:40

1 min read

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Yisrael Beiteinu chairman MK Avigdor Liberman launched a sharp attack today (Monday) against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump, following the American president's statement of support for Netanyahu.

Addressing Trump's backing of the prime minister, Liberman claimed the American president's words are driven by his interest in preserving his influence over Israeli decision-making.

"President Trump finds it very convenient to run Israel with the help of 'puppet Bibi,'" Liberman said.

"First law in the next government: Draft for everyone"

Alongside the political attack, Liberman also addressed the issue of haredi conscription and military draft evasion figures, which he said have reached a record high.

"We suddenly see that the rate of evasion from the IDF has broken all records, we cannot continue like this," he said.

Liberman made clear he intends to place the draft issue at the top of the next government's priorities, if given the opportunity to advance the move.

"The first law in the next government, which I intend to pass, is a draft law for everyone. There will be no exemptions and no targets, everyone without exception," he declared.

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