Liberman calls for Netanyahu treason probe over alleged attempt to start war to delay elections

Yisrael Beytenu, chairman Avigdor Liberman, called on Attorney-General Gali Baharav-Miara to open a criminal investigation into Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on suspicion of treason, according to a statement released on Monday.

Liberman's appeal does not establish criminal wrongdoing or mean an investigation has opened.

The demand follows a report by N12 on Sunday that Netanyahu and IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir had clashed over a proposed military operation that could trigger a confrontation with Iran, just two days before Israel's October 27 election.

Liberman accuses Netanyahu of attempting to delay elections

Liberman accused Netanyahu of attempting to draw Israel into a military confrontation to prevent the elections from taking place.

In a statement published on X on Sunday, Liberman said he believed Netanyahu was attempting to force Israel into military action to prevent the vote, describing the alleged conduct as a betrayal of the state and its security.

He further argued that the chief of staff had a responsibility to prevent the military from being used for political purposes and to protect soldiers from unnecessary risks.

Speaking to 103FM on Monday, Liberman announced his intention to approach the attorney-general and request a criminal investigation into Netanyahu on treason allegations.