Foreign Minister and Yisrael Beytenu Chairman Avigdor Lieberman visited the Negev community of Netiv Ha’esreh on Monday afternoon, where he observed the work being done to uncover Hamas terror tunnels and fortifications.

Liberman stated during the visit that Hamas did not attack Israel over the summer due to the abduction of the Israeli teenagers and the subsequent crackdown on terror, but because of their perception that Israel was being led by a weak government which “did not know how to achieve deterrence.”  

This, he said, has led Hamas “to decide to build fortifications, restore terror tunnels and replenish their rocket arsenal,” he added. 

Liberman promised that, if made Defense Minister, Hamas terrorists would not be able to rebuild. 

“It’s the state’s responsibility to take care of residents of communities near Gaza and in southern Israel, and to make sure that the fourth round of fighting against Hamas will be its last,” he stated. “Elimination of the Hamas government is the first task of the Israeli government and I, as Defense Minister, will do it.” 

Liberman promised not to give in to international calls for a cease-fire.  

“The only agreement that can be obtained with Hamas is that they be buried underground,” he warned. “Everyone knows what my position was in this government; I didn’t hide it. Unfortunately, my stance wasn’t accepted. I was a minority in the Cabinet.” 

“It is important after the elections for us to establish a strong coalition – not one of nerds,” he added. “A coalition that will give the command to destroy Hamas.”