Panetta Warns Trump Could Give Netanyahu "Blank Check" in Middle East, Risking Conflict with Iran

Former CIA Director and Defense Secretary Leon Panetta expressed concerns that President-elect Donald Trump could grant Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu unchecked support in the Middle East, potentially escalating tensions with Iran. Panetta, speaking on the One Decision podcast, predicted that Trump might offer Netanyahu free rein in his actions, including decisions that could provoke open conflict with Iran.

"Trump’s approach may involve giving Netanyahu full freedom—essentially a ‘blank check’ for any course of action," Panetta remarked. This possibility comes amid recent hostilities between Israel and Iran-linked assets following last year’s attack on Israel by Hamas. Panetta questioned whether Netanyahu might choose to intensify confrontations with Iran, risking prolonged instability in the region.

Netanyahu, who reportedly spoke with Trump during the campaign, congratulated him on his victory over Vice President Kamala Harris. Trump’s return to office, Panetta suggested, could lead to foreign policy shifts, including reduced restraint on Israel's military actions and potential concessions to Russia in the ongoing Ukraine conflict.

Panetta also speculated that Trump may be inclined to let Russia maintain its hold on certain Ukrainian territories—a stance he said would not benefit Ukraine, which had strong support from the Biden administration. While Panetta doubted Trump would have complete freedom in policy decisions, he expressed concerns about Trump’s capacity for diplomatic negotiation, referencing Trump’s unsuccessful attempts to reach a deal with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un in past summits.

Now in his 80s, Panetta remains a seasoned political figure, having served in several major government roles. He advised Trump to delegate Ukraine negotiations to a knowledgeable Secretary of State or Defense, suggesting this would be essential for achieving a balanced agreement with Russia.

Panetta added that, if re-elected, Trump would face a complex global landscape, with significant issues ranging from the Ukraine war and Middle East conflicts to tensions with China and North Korea. He cautioned that Trump’s campaign promise to “cut a deal” on major international issues could mean compromising with adversaries, a stance that might face opposition even within his own party.

As Trump’s foreign policy vision takes shape, Panetta’s comments highlight concerns among experienced officials about potential impacts on U.S. alliances and global stability.