Harsher security policy may strain Israeli military

Significance

Under the deal, announced on May 25, he replaces the respected former Israel Defence Forces (IDF) chief of staff, Moshe Ya'alon, who resigned on May 20, marking the culmination of a growing rift with Netanyahu over the occupation of the West Bank and the rules of engagement for soldiers and policemen.

Impacts

• As part of the new coalition deal, the defence budget will be maintained at a minimum of 15 billion dollars a year for the next few years.
• Lieberman's entry into the coalition will help Netanyahu secure his political future, and allow him more room for manoeuvre.
• He will influence senior IDF appointments, among them the deputy chief of staff by the end of this year.
• A successful tenure as defence minister would boost Lieberman's ambition to succeed Netanyahu as prime minister.