Lieberman Warns Netanyahu May Use Military Action for Electoral Gain

(MENAFN) Israeli opposition figure Avigdor Lieberman cautioned on Thursday that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu could potentially resort to military operations “for electoral purposes,” as speculation grows over a possible dissolution of the Knesset.

During a statement made while visiting the Be’eri settlement near the Gaza border, Lieberman—who previously served as defense minister—said he is not against any military action “if necessary.” However, he stressed concerns about the timing and motivation behind such decisions.

He further argued that Netanyahu “might take military action not only to achieve victory, but solely to serve electoral purposes.” Expanding on his concern, Lieberman, who leads the Yisrael Beytenu party, did not clarify the specific type or location of any potential operation, but emphasized the risks involved for military personnel.

“It concerns our soldiers. If a military action is taken, it should be solely for the purpose of making a decision. It is unacceptable to take military action for the purpose of holding elections,” he said.

His comments came after Netanyahu repeatedly threatened “to change the face of the Middle East" and to establish Israel as a regional "superpower."

Meanwhile, the governing coalition introduced legislation on Wednesday evening aimed at dissolving the Knesset, amid an ongoing Haredi conscription dispute. The move has been widely interpreted as an effort to pre-empt a similar initiative from opposition factions.

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