Lieberman Warns of Halachic State, Demands Universal Conscription

Avigdor Lieberman, leader of the Yisrael Beytenu party, addressed the conference of liberal mechinot in Israel on Sunday, outlining his political platform ahead of the upcoming elections. Lieberman stated that the core battle in the upcoming vote will center on military conscription versus draft evasion, warning that without a victory by his camp, the country could transform into a halachic state.

Constitution Over Judicial Reforms

Addressing the coalition's legislative initiatives regarding judicial reform, Lieberman dismissed piecemeal legislation, asserting that the only viable reform is the drafting of a full constitution. He proposed that an expert panel be appointed to formulate a draft within six months, which would then be put to a public referendum to bypass the Knesset and comprehensively regulate religion-state relations.

Netanyahu does not want us to discuss the issue of responsibility, the collapse of governance, and the severe failure of personal security on October 7, but rather wants the debate focused solely on who will be prime minister.

Lieberman also criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and coalition members over their handling of national security and the ongoing diplomatic isolation of Israel, describing the current administration as a sectarian government focused on power rather than defense.

Conscription Mandate and Regional Strategy

Setting a strict condition for joining any future government, Lieberman insisted on universal mandatory service for all citizens, either through military tracks or alternative civic service supervised exclusively by the Ministry of Defense. Regarding security matters, he argued that the Iranian regime must be actively overthrown, and criticized the handling of the northern front against Hezbollah, advocating for stronger coordination with regional moderate partners.