Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke with Australian broadcaster Erin Molan in an interview covering Israel’s defense policy, his ongoing trial, regional developments and the future of Gaza.

Prime Minister Netanyahu responding in real time to @axios headline “Israel seeks 20 year military Aid deal with US” that dropped as our interview began:

Full conversation on The Erin Molan Show LINKED 👇

Prime Minister Netanyahu responding in real time to Axios headline “Israel seeks 20-year military Aid deal with US” on Thursday. Posted on X @Erin_Molan

Netanyahu rejected a report published by Axios claiming Israel is seeking a 20-year U.S. military aid deal with America First tweaks.” He said Israel’s goal is to strengthen its defense industry and reduce dependence on foreign assistance.

Responding to questions about U.S. President Donald Trump’s reported request for a pardon, Netanyahu said his own corruption trial is “politicized and unjust,” adding that it damages both Israeli and American institutions.

Asked about New York City’s new mayor, Zohran Mamdani, who has stated that he would order Netanyahu’s arrest if he visited the city, the prime minister said he is “not afraid” to travel and warned that economic and social instability in major Western cities “should concern everyone.”

Netanyahu criticized French President Emmanuel Macron’s decision to host Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas in Paris, saying “peace cannot be built on falsehoods.” Addressing the Iranian people amid their government’s ongoing crisis, he said Israel “stands with those seeking a better future.”

On Gaza, Netanyahu said Israel “will not outsource its security” and confirmed that he intends to remain active in public life. He also spoke about the impact of political pressure on his family, calling media attacks on his wife and son “the most painful part of leadership.”

The interview concluded with Molan thanking Netanyahu for his openness. Netanyahu responded with a light comment, suggesting she “apply for a job at the BBC.”