Liberman holds talks with Haredim after storm over conscription law

In depth

Yisrael Beiteinu chairman Avigdor Liberman said his party supports Gadi Eisenkot for forming the government, and denied reports of talks with the Haredi parties. According to him, the conscription law must pass the High Court of Justice test. Liberman announced that he would not lend a hand to a government that relies on Ra'am or on the Joint List.

A senior official in United Torah Judaism said Liberman is conducting secret and direct talks with the rabbinical courts, presenting himself as holding a mandate on behalf of Eisenkot, Bennett and Yair Golan. According to the official, the decision depends on a proposal that will regulate the conscription law. The Haredim also demand guarantees that the agreements will be kept after the government is formed, and at this stage no mutually agreed mechanism has been found.

In the left-wing bloc there are concerns that the talks with United Torah Judaism will not lead to the formation of a government, and in the change bloc they estimate that in any case concessions on religion and state issues will be required. Liberman said in a statement that he will not give up his principles and will work on behalf of those who serve.