Likud open to Liberman joining coalition, Education Minister Kisch tells ‘Post’ - interview

Education Minister Yoav Kisch told The Jerusalem Post that Likud is open to Avigdor Liberman joining a Netanyahu-led coalition, but ruled out Yair Golan. Kisch outlined red lines including opposition to a Palestinian state and maintaining security zones, and discussed a NIS 15 billion education plan.

Education Minister Yoav Kisch told The Jerusalem Post that Likud is open to bringing Yisrael Beytenu chairman Avigdor Liberman into a Netanyahu-led coalition, provided Liberman supports the government's security approach of controlling borders and using military force when necessary. Kisch categorically ruled out a coalition with Democrats leader Yair Golan. He said Likud would seek to broaden the coalition even if its current partners secure 61 seats, arguing that opposition boycotts of Netanyahu have damaged Israel. Kisch listed red lines including opposition to a Palestinian state, maintaining security zones, and strengthening Jewish education. On haredi enlistment, he advocated cooperation with incentives and penalties rather than imprisonment. Kisch said he wants to remain education minister and pursue a NIS 15 billion plan to reduce class sizes and move to a five-day school week. He opposed a Supreme Court-appointed October 7 inquiry, favoring a joint coalition-opposition model. The ministry conducted an internal review of its war response, identifying shortcomings in tracking displaced students.