Joe Lieberman: Schumer’s Call to Oust Netanyahu ‘Outrageous’

Former Senator Joe Lieberman, an Independent from Connecticut, criticized Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer’s involvement in Israeli politics, deeming it “outrageous” and beyond acceptable boundaries. Lieberman, who serves as the founder and chair of No Labels, expressed his concerns during an appearance on “The Cats Roundtable” on WABC 770 AM-N.Y., as reported by The Hill. He remarked, “For a U.S. senator, let alone a majority leader, let alone the highest-ranking Jewish elected official in Washington, to tell Israelis that it’s time to get rid of [Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu], that’s outrageous.” Lieberman highlighted the unprecedented nature of Schumer’s actions.

Furthermore, Lieberman argued that this situation underscores a disparity in how Democrats view Israel compared to other close allies. He suggested that while it’s unimaginable for Schumer or President Joe Biden to call for the removal of the British prime minister, they have intervened in Israeli politics. Lieberman speculated that such actions would provoke widespread outrage. He specifically criticized Schumer’s recent Senate address, where he asserted that Netanyahu had “lost his way,” characterizing it as a “mistake.”

Schumer’s remarks in the Senate centered on his belief that Netanyahu’s conservative leadership no longer aligns with Israel’s best interests. Schumer asserted, “However, I also believe Prime Minister Netanyahu has lost his way by allowing his political survival to take the precedence over the best interests of Israel.” He pointed out the significant changes in the global landscape since Netanyahu’s tenure began, suggesting that Israel needs a leadership vision that reflects current realities.

In response to Schumer’s statements, Netanyahu’s spokeswoman, Tal Heinrich, emphasized Israel’s sovereignty and democratic principles. Heinrich stressed that Israel operates as a democracy where citizens choose their leaders, and interference in internal politics from external entities is unwelcome. She emphasized that the current unity government, led by Netanyahu, reflects the desires of the Israeli populace, particularly in its stance against terrorism and its commitment to national security.

Heinrich also reiterated Israel’s rejection of a Palestinian terrorist state and its determination to achieve a decisive victory over Hamas. She emphasized that Hamas, not Israel, poses a threat to peace in the region. Heinrich echoed Schumer’s sentiments regarding the impediments to peace, attributing them to Palestinian terrorism and their refusal to recognize Israel’s legitimacy. Drawing parallels to the aftermath of 9/11, Heinrich underscored the importance of global unity in combating terrorism and reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to defending its sovereignty against threats.

{Matzav.com}