The Prime Minister’s Office hit back at claim made by MK Avigdor Lieberman, but did not deny the allegations, noting, “Israel is acting to defeat Hamas in various and diverse ways, upon the recommendation of all heads of the security establishment.”
The Israeli government has come under scrutiny following allegations of weapons transfers to Palestinian groups in Gaza, with officials offering conflicting assessments of the policy’s risks. The Prime Minister’s Office responded ambiguously, stating, “Israel is acting to defeat Hamas in various and diverse ways, upon the recommendation of all heads of the security establishment.”
Former Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman issued stark warnings, asserting, “Nobody can guarantee that these weapons won’t be turned against Israel. We have no ability to supervise or track them.” He further criticized Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar’s leadership, adding, “I’m not sure how much Ronen Bar is functioning a week before he leaves.”
Lieberman doubled down on social media, posting, “Don’t give them rifles,” a pointed reference to 1990s opposition to arming the Palestinian Authority under the Oslo Accords. The remark underscores growing divisions within Israel’s security establishment over tactics in the ongoing conflict.
The government has not confirmed or denied the alleged transfers, leaving open questions about their scope and oversight. With Hamas still entrenched in Gaza, the debate highlights the delicate balance between military pressure and long-term security risks.