In his address to the annual J. Post Conference in NYC, former IDF Chief of Staff Gabi Ashkenazi allayed fears of many by explaining he is not concerned over the likelihood of Avigdor Lieberman serving as Israel’s next Defense Minister.

Ashkenazi, who spoke firmly about the need to continue battling terrorism, rejects calls to speak with Hamas, citing the terrorist organization does not recognize Israel or Israel’s right to exist.

Regarding Lieberman, he explained there is a big difference between his statements and his actions, basing his evaluation on Lieberman’s tenure as Foreign Minister. Ashkenazi stated he is confident that Lieberman will adopt the same “pragmatic approach” in the Defense Ministry as he did in the Foreign Ministry, despite the doomsday predictions heard from the Israeli left-wing.

Ashkenazi also used the forum to praise outgoing DM Ya’alon’s significant contribution to Israel’s defense over the years, expressing his hope that he will continue contributing in the future.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)