Liberman: I asked Golan — is Bibi paying your salary?

Yisrael Beiteinu leader Avigdor Liberman said in a Walla interview that he intends to run for prime minister, stressing that the primary goal is replacing the government. He criticized opponents, economic policy, and government actions, called for opposition unity and the formation of a 'state and Zionist coalition.' Liberman also opposed merging opposition parties and ruled out a coalition with the ultra-Orthodox.

Yisrael Beiteinu leader Avigdor Liberman said in a Walla interview that he sees himself as a suitable candidate for prime minister, but the primary goal is replacing the government. 'It is important that Netanyahu leaves and is not prime minister. He has already caused enough damage,' he said. Liberman noted a rise in supporters, including former military and security officials, and clarified that not all will be on the election list, which will be submitted in early September. He called for opposition unity, saying internal disputes play into the hands of the government, and addressed Golan: 'Is Bibi paying your salary?' urging focus on consensus issues. On the economy, he said he left a surplus of 10.6 billion shekels with record growth, and criticized current policy as 'sectoral.' He proposed closing unnecessary ministries, canceling coalition funds of 12 billion shekels, and introducing mandatory service for all. Liberman also warned of a nuclear arms race in the Middle East and criticized religious parties. He ruled out a coalition with the ultra-Orthodox and opposed merging opposition parties.

Liberman: I asked Golan — is Bibi paying your salary?