Bennett and Lieberman Plot to Topple Netanyahu
Avigdor Lieberman and Naftali Bennett met to discuss Gaza, hostage talks, IDF conscription, and efforts to replace Netanyahu, amid speculation over an opposition alliance.
Twitter
In a strategic move to challenge Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, MK Avigdor Lieberman, leader of Yisrael Beytenu, met with former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett this morning to discuss critical issues including the ongoing Gaza war, hostage negotiations, IDF conscription, the economy, and plans to swiftly replace the current government “to fix Israel.” The meeting is part of ongoing efforts to unite opposition forces, though a formal political merger remains uncertain.
According to Lieberman’s office, the two leaders focused on formulating principles for a future government and coordinating with other Zionist parties. Earlier today, Lieberman sent a letter to opposition leader Yair Lapid, urging an urgent meeting of all opposition heads, including Bennett and Gadi Eisenkot, to align on shared governmental goals.
This isn’t the first encounter between Bennett and Lieberman. Last summer, in 2024, a publicized meeting at a Tel Aviv café, photographed at Yisrael Beytenu’s initiative, sparked speculation about a potential joint electoral run, contingent on its strategic advantages outweighing separate campaigns.
Former minister Ayelet Shaked has been a key figure in pushing for this alliance, meeting both Lieberman and Bennett multiple times in recent months. Shaked has championed the idea of uniting anti-Netanyahu forces, expressing confidence that a Bennett-Lieberman partnership could lead a future government.
However, these discussions may not culminate in a formal political union. Bennett is gearing up for a political comeback, while Lieberman aims to expand Yisrael Beytenu’s influence and vie for the premiership. Whether a joint effort would advance their individual ambitions remains uncertain. A key hurdle is the question of leadership: both Bennett and Lieberman see themselves as prime ministerial candidates, unwilling to settle for second place. The decision will hinge on electoral dynamics, including post-election polls and the landscape as candidate lists are finalized.