Avigdor Lieberman: "We Will Not Join a Minority Government"
The chairman of Yisrael Beiteinu has ruled out the possibility of establishing a government relying on fewer than 61 Knesset members. In an interview with Galei Tzahal, he clarified that his party would not participate in any coalition lacking a full parliamentary majority.
Avigdor Lieberman, chairman of Yisrael Beiteinu, clarified on Monday that his party will not be part of a minority government. Amid discussions regarding the possibility of forming a cabinet without the support of 61 Knesset members, Lieberman drew a clear line, ruling out participation in any government that relies on outside support, including that of Arab parties.
In an interview with Galei Tzahal, he stated:
"There will not be a minority government. Whoever tries to swear in a government with 58 mandates — we will not be in it."
These remarks come against the backdrop of various political scenarios being explored ahead of the elections, as neither bloc is guaranteed to reach the 61-seat threshold. The possibility of establishing a government that lacks a 61-member majority, while relying on the support or abstention of non-coalition parties, arises periodically in political discourse.
Lieberman’s stance effectively precludes his party from participating in such arrangements. His words are also perceived as a message to Gadi Eisenkot, who leads a new party and may face the challenge of forming a government without a clear 61-seat majority.
Last week, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich addressed the possibility that Eisenkot and Lieberman might work to establish a minority government, stating:
"This is exactly the reason why Lieberman wants the left to remain quiet — so that his right-wing voters do not run away. Lieberman will be a partner of Tibi."
