Netanyahu Opens Up on Political Successor and Shares Personal Moments in Rare Interview

In an unprecedented interview with Sharon Gal on the podcast "In Sharon's Living Room," Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the pressing political question of whether he is grooming a successor. Netanyahu, who usually avoids discussing his political heirs, responded directly when asked if there is someone he would trust "with the keys to the country" and could leave peacefully. He said, "I hope one will come, yes, I think there is," and confirmed that he is indeed mentoring such individuals. However, he rejected the notion of political inheritance as a monarchical concept, emphasizing that "the public decides." Although he did not name anyone, he described them as excellent people, some of whom are not well known due to what he called "propaganda on television channels."

Netanyahu also stressed the importance of forming a broad national government to face Israel's existential challenges. He mentioned meeting reservists and regular soldiers from all sectors of society and expressed hope for unity despite political disagreements. He called to end personal boycotts and invited anyone willing to accept his core principles, Israel as the nation-state of the Jewish people, opposition to a Palestinian state, a strong security policy, and technological superiority, to join him. He highlighted the need for the "sentiment of unity" found among soldiers to secure Israel's future.

During the interview, Netanyahu recalled a moving personal moment when he laid tefillin of fallen Golani soldier Staff Sergeant Shon Carmeli, brought to him by Sharon Gal. Netanyahu explained his deep connection to tradition, rooted in his family heritage, noting that although he is secular, he holds great respect for religion and faith sources tied to Jewish history. He recounted a pivotal moment after ordering an attack on Iran, concluding the meeting by saying, "God will help us," which he described as an intense, uplifting experience shared by both religious and secular attendees.

Netanyahu also shared personal anecdotes, revealing that he wrote his book "Bibi: My Story" by hand to force himself to think carefully before writing. He reflected on his early struggles, including having to negotiate with a Bank of Israel official to transfer a few thousand dollars abroad during his first term. He considers his economic reforms, which transitioned Israel from a socialist to a free-market economy, among his greatest achievements, enabling Israel to become a global power. He concluded by affirming his lifelong dedication to ensuring Israel's survival and stated, "I don't think I've yet ignited all my plans."