Full Send Podcast – Episode 161: Benjamin Netanyahu
Released on July 21, 2025 by Shots Podcast Network
Hosts: Kyle Forgeard, Bob Menery, SteveWillDoIt
Guest: Benjamin Netanyahu, former Prime Minister of Israel
Introduction
In Episode 161 of the Full Send Podcast, the hosts Kyle Forgeard, Bob Menery, and SteveWillDoIt welcome a highly unexpected and controversial guest: Benjamin Netanyahu, the long-serving former Prime Minister of Israel. The episode delves deep into international politics, focusing primarily on Israel's stance against Iran, the dynamics of U.S.-Israel relations, and the recent tragic events involving Hamas.
Netanyahu’s Entrance and Immediate Reactions ([01:28] - [03:04])
Kyle Forgeard sets the tone with astonishment, saying, "This is fucking nuts" ([01:28]). Netanyahu responds candidly, admitting his lack of expertise in podcasting but expressing eagerness to educate listeners about the complex Middle Eastern issues.
Notable Quote:
"We are just not qualified to do this. That's what's interesting about this." – Benjamin Netanyahu ([01:29])
Netanyahu emphasizes the unprecedented nature of his appearance, acknowledging the potential for controversy but underscoring the importance of direct dialogue with world leaders.
U.S.-Israel Relations and Leadership Dynamics ([03:04] - [11:05])
The conversation shifts to Netanyahu’s relationship with former U.S. President Donald Trump. Netanyahu praises Trump’s leadership, highlighting their strong partnership in combating common threats.
Notable Quote:
"We have a different relationship. With Donald Trump, we've had powerful agreements where there's no daylight between an American President and Israeli Prime Minister." – Benjamin Netanyahu ([03:38])
He contrasts this with his relationship with President Joe Biden, noting severe disagreements despite their long-standing acquaintance.
Netanyahu lauds Trump for his decisive actions against adversaries, reaffirming their shared commitment to Israel's security.
Perception of Israel in America ([07:52] - [20:14])
Netanyahu addresses concerns about growing anti-Israel sentiment, particularly among young Americans. He attributes this to misinformation and vilification propagated by adversarial forces.
Notable Quote:
"The broad segments of the American public support Israel, but I'm concerned that the young people in America, some of them are getting the wrong picture of Israel." – Benjamin Netanyahu ([07:52])
He advocates for combating false narratives with relentless truth-telling, emphasizing Israel's status as a "paragon of freedom" in a region marred by oppression.
Netanyahu highlights Israel's progressive values, particularly regarding LGBTQ+ rights and women's freedoms, contrasting them sharply with neighboring nations like Iran.
Notable Quote:
"Tel Aviv is one of the most open, liberal-minded cities on earth. Israel is a completely different society compared to the darkness of Iran." – Benjamin Netanyahu ([08:39])
Misconceptions About Israel ([08:35] - [20:14])
Delving deeper, Netanyahu dismantles prevalent myths about Israel, particularly the notion that Israel indiscriminately targets civilians in Gaza. He blames Hamas for embedding themselves within civilian populations, making it challenging to conduct military operations without collateral damage.
Notable Quote:
"The civilian casualties in Gaza are because Hamas embeds itself in the civilian population, meaning the Palestinians." – Benjamin Netanyahu ([15:25])
Netanyahu underscores Israel's extensive efforts to minimize civilian harm, including urging residents to evacuate war zones, which Hamas reportedly undermines through deliberate targeting.
He further criticizes movements like "Gays for Gaza" and "Women for Gaza," dismissing them as absurd and counterproductive to genuine peace efforts.
The Conflict with Iran ([20:14] - [35:00])
Netanyahu articulates his longstanding concern over Iran's nuclear ambitions and ballistic missile capabilities, likening them to "two lumps of cancer" threatening Israel and America. He praises the strategic strikes authorized by former President Trump that neutralized these threats.
Notable Quote:
"If you don't remove the cancer, you're going to be dead. We had to act, and we did." – Benjamin Netanyahu ([22:28])
He envisions a future where the Iranian regime is dismantled from within, allowing for peaceful relations between Iran and Israel, much like the historical ties before the 1979 Islamic Revolution.
Netanyahu advocates for "peace through strength," emphasizing that robust defensive measures pave the way for lasting peace in the Middle East.
Personal Reflections and Military Experiences ([35:00] - [58:10])
Netanyahu shares personal anecdotes from his military service, highlighting the sacrifices made by himself and his comrades. He recounts a harrowing experience during a hostage rescue mission, underscoring the human cost of defending national security.
Notable Quote:
"Life isn't a series of military operations. It's more complicated. But the most important thing is to live a life of purpose and don't forget your family." – Benjamin Netanyahu ([53:05])
He reflects on the loss of his brother, Yoni Netanyahu, during the renowned Entebbe raid, illustrating the deep personal toll of such missions.
The October 7th Attack and Its Aftermath ([58:10] - [70:29])
The podcast addresses the devastating Hamas attack on October 7th, detailing its brutality and the ensuing military response by Israel. Netanyahu expresses unwavering commitment to rescuing hostages and bringing Hamas to justice.
Notable Quote:
"I believe in this. I didn't believe for a second that we wouldn't get anyone alive." – Benjamin Netanyahu ([50:59])
He discusses the strategic challenges faced during the operation, including Hamas's use of civilian areas as shields, and the heroism displayed by both Israeli and American forces.
Netanyahu emphasizes the importance of resilience and collective memory in maintaining Israel's security and democratic values.
Vision for Peace and Conclusion ([70:29] - [73:57])
In concluding, Netanyahu outlines his ideal scenario for Middle Eastern peace, envisioning a region where Iran does not possess nuclear weapons and where Israel has cordial relations with all Arab neighbors. He remains optimistic about leveraging the current momentum to expand peace accords.
Notable Quote:
"Peace through strength. First comes strength, then comes the peace." – Benjamin Netanyahu ([73:02])
The episode wraps up with casual banter about Tel Aviv's vibrant nightlife and economic growth, reinforcing the podcast's blend of serious discourse with light-hearted moments.
Notable Quotes Overview
-
Netanyahu on Podcasting Challenges:
"We are just not qualified to do this. That's what's interesting about this." ([01:29])
-
On U.S.-Israel Partnership:
"We've had powerful agreements where there's no daylight between an American President and Israeli Prime Minister." ([03:38])
-
Combating Misconceptions:
"Tel Aviv is one of the most open, liberal-minded cities on earth. Israel is a completely different society compared to the darkness of Iran." ([08:39])
-
On Military Responsibility:
"Life isn't a series of military operations. It's more complicated. But the most important thing is to live a life of purpose and don't forget your family." ([53:05])
-
Vision of Peace Through Strength:
"Peace through strength. First comes strength, then comes the peace." ([73:02])
Conclusion
Episode 161 of the Full Send Podcast offers a rare and unfiltered glimpse into the mind of Benjamin Netanyahu, blending geopolitical discourse with personal memoirs. While the episode sparked controversy due to Netanyahu's participation, it undeniably provides listeners with a robust understanding of Israel's contemporary challenges and strategic outlook. Through candid conversations and poignant reflections, the podcast aims to bridge gaps in understanding and foster informed discussions about Middle Eastern politics and international relations.