We should not let the smiling pictures from IDF headquarters on Tuesday fool us. Quite a few mugs of black coffee will be sipped before the veil of suspicion is lifted, if ever, between the two wings on the 14th floor of the Defense Ministry building. Let it be said immediately: On the surface both sides -- new Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman and the defense establishment (particularly the IDF) -- appear intent on giving it a real chance. This was not only evident in the body language, which sought to project a relaxed, professional atmosphere, but mainly in the words spoken. In his opening address, Lieberman said "all the right things," eschewing anything that could be construed as provocative or critical in the slightest. Anyone who thinks Lieberman's plan is to chew up and spit out IDF generals on his path toward regional conquests is in for a surprise. The defense minister prefers peace over war, and plans to march in step with the chief of staff. It is still too early to tell whether Lieberman's approach in recent days has been tactical or strategic. He is clearly thrilled to be in this position, yet it is reasonable to assume that a moment after stretching out behind his new desk he was hit by the weight of the office: the responsibility, purpose and power -- things he has not felt to this degree in any other capacity. There is still so much to learn and understand, despite his years of experience as a member of the Diplomatic-Security Cabinet. Some of the things for which he is now officially responsible, as of Tuesday, he has only learned about through rumors and foreign reports. From this point forward, many of the decisions he will make will directly impact life and death, for Israelis and others. Thus far Lieberman has emphasized that he is here to work and work hard. He says his intention is to listen and learn, and only then decide. He did well to reach out to his predecessor, Moshe Ya'alon, to help him transition into the new role. While acquiring all of Ya'alon's experience in a matter of hours isn't likely, the former defense minister is honorable and forthright enough to help him on his way, primarily with advice about what (and who) to watch out for, and what to ask (and from whom). Lieberman will devote the coming days to learning the system. His military secretary, Yair Kulas, will in all likelihood provide him with an accelerated training program, which will include familiarizing himself with the army's various commands and branches, along with its plans and capabilities. New Defense Ministry Director General Maj. Gen. (res.) Udi Adam will be tasked with getting Lieberman up to speed on budgetary matters and projects, among them those requiring an immediate decision. Lieberman will struggle to become proficient on all these fronts. He would be wise to surround himself with an experienced group of advisors to guide him through his decisions, at least during the initial period, and perhaps to help him (and all of us) avoid any unnecessary embarrassments. The rest of the road is far less predictable. Will Lieberman fall in love with the system and become its patron, or will he use it to advance his own political interests? It is doubtful that even he knows at this point. The answer to this question, however, will not only have a dramatic impact on the IDF, its stature and character, but broader issues as well -- like war and peace.
