Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in a candid interview with Ben Shapiro, reflected on the ongoing two-year conflict with Hamas, Israel’s regional position, and his relationship with former US President Donald Trump. Netanyahu stressed that while Israel is close to ending the war in Gaza, Hamas has not yet been fully destroyed. He emphasized that the ultimate goal remains the complete removal of Hamas from power and the release of all Israeli hostages.
Netanyahu highlighted that Israel’s strength has grown since the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack, asserting that the country has emerged as the strongest state in the region, capable of confronting the so-called “Axis of Resistance,” an informal coalition of Iran-backed groups including Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis. He framed the immediate priority as concluding the war, ensuring the safety of hostages, and ending Hamas’ governance in Gaza.
The Israeli Prime Minister also addressed Iran’s missile program, warning that the country is developing intercontinental ballistic missiles capable of reaching the US East Coast. He framed Israel as a key ally that shares the burden of regional security with the United States, asserting that Israel protects US interests without requiring American ground troops. Netanyahu stressed that while America may prioritize itself under the “America First” policy, great powers still need dependable allies like Israel.
On his relationship with Trump, Netanyahu described it as “warm” despite occasional disagreements. He acknowledged reports of Trump’s frustrations with him but praised the former president for helping “turn the tables” on Hamas. Netanyahu noted that, together, they succeeded in coordinating international pressure and shaping the global response to Hamas’ aggression.
Finally, Netanyahu confirmed that peace talks with Hamas, facilitated by Egypt, are ongoing, intending to implement Trump’s 20-point Gaza peace plan. The plan envisions an immediate ceasefire, the exchange of hostages, and steps toward removing Hamas from political power, but the Israeli PM underlined that true victory requires both the liberation of all hostages and the dismantling of Hamas’ authority.
