Lieberman in New York: We would prefer elections to releasing terrorists

April 6, 2014   

Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman spoke today at the Jerusalem Post's annual conference in New York and addressed negotiations with the Palestinians. "I personally do not think that our position allows us to retreat to a package deal and release terrorists. A new coalition is also not an option for us. To clarify our position, we will prefer new elections to a package deal and a new coalition," he said. "We are truly at a very critical moment. What has happened in recent days is blackmail by the Palestinians," Lieberman said, adding: "We are ready for any kind of talks, but we are not ready for blackmail.". The Foreign Minister noted in his speech at the conference that there are three options on the table: "The package deal that includes our willingness to release terrorists is not an option. The second is the formation of a new coalition and the third option is new elections. I personally do not think that in our position it is possible to retreat to a package deal and release terrorists.". Lieberman continued to emphasize: "A new coalition is not an option for us either. The first two options are unacceptable to Yisrael Beiteinu, and if the alternative is to give in to the Palestinian threats or pay huge sums to maintain an alternative coalition, it is better to go to the elections." The Foreign Minister noted that Israel is interested in continuing the talks, but the Palestinians' steps are making it difficult for the Israeli side. Lieberman also addressed the criticism that Israel is receiving in the international arena and the fear that the government will be blamed for the failure of the talks. He later attacked the countries of the world for preferring to criticize Israel and ignore what is happening in the Arab countries. When asked what his position was regarding the possibility that Palestinian President Abu Mazen would turn to the International Court of Justice in The Hague against Israel, Lieberman replied: "Sometimes it is better to remain silent.". MK Amar Bar-Lev, who is also participating in the conference, responded to Foreign Minister Lieberman's words: "With a little creativity, the Israeli leadership would understand that there are a little more than these three options, but if Lieberman says he does not accept the first two, the government probably has no chance of advancing the political process and it is really better to go to the elections, and preferably one hour earlier. I call on Lieberman to stand by his word, not to let the political process disintegrate and the vision of a Jewish and democratic state collapse, and to allow him to go to the people and let them have their say. If the government has courage and integrity, this is what needs to happen.".