John Perkins comments to Yeni Şafak: Netanyahu profits, Israel loses

John Perkins, author of "Confessions of an Economic Hit Man," evaluated the war waged by the U.S.-Israel alliance against Iran since Feb. 28 in an interview with Yeni Şafak. Perkins pointed out that the individual who has gained the most from the war against Iran is Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, while stating that Israel itself will ultimately suffer losses. He also underlined that the rest of the Middle East has been severely harmed by the war.

The American author, whose book has been translated into more than 32 languages and sold over 1.25 million copies, drew on his past as a former “economic hit man,” where he observed how the United States drove countries into chaos for its own interests. Perkins stated that Netanyahu—who is wanted by the International Criminal Court for alleged war crimes committed in Gazais the primary beneficiary of the war. In contrast, he argued that Israel will emerge weakened. He added that military-industrial companies as well as oil corporations are profiting from the conflict, saying:

“Most of the Middle East is suffering greatly from this situation, as is much of the world. However, Netanyahu himself is desperate to stay in power and initiated the war by asking Donald Trump for help.”

Netanyahu Prioritized His Own Interests

Perkins emphasized that the process is linked to personal political goals, stating:

“Perhaps the biggest intended beneficiary is Netanyahu. I do not think Israel is benefiting, and certainly the rest of the Middle East is suffering greatly; much of the world is as well. However, Netanyahu himself is desperate to remain in power and asked Trump for assistance.”

Recalling the resignation of former U.S. National Counterterrorism Center Director Joe Kent, Perkins noted:

“In his resignation, Kent argued that Iran did not pose an imminent threat and that the conflict was initiated due to pressure from Netanyahu.”

He highlighted the importance of this statement, noting that Kent had previously been a strong supporter of Trump.

Trump Wants to Show “I Can Do It”

Perkins stated that he does not see a clear strategic framework behind the current war against Iran:

“We need to distinguish between the personal interests of leaders and the foreign policies of their countries. This should not be the case, and it is not always so; however, today we are witnessing a conflict between the two on a global scale.”

Expressing uncertainty about Trump’s motives, he said:

“I really have no idea what Trump’s objective is. I believe the attacks on Iran are about wanting to show that he can do it. He was greatly encouraged by the attack on Venezuela, and this appears to be a continuation of that.”

He also warned of potential regional expansion, adding: “Trump is now mentioning Cuba as the next target.”

Venezuela Impact Must Be Debated

Perkins argued that the global consequences of U.S. intervention in Venezuela must be discussed. He said:

“The key issue after this intervention is how it will affect the U.S. and the rest of the world. How will these actions impact the world’s relationship with the United States? Will they support China’s pursuit of global dominance? Will they legitimize Russia’s imperial ambitions in Europe? Or China’s threats toward Taiwan?”

He also addressed the possibility of intervention in Cuba, stating:

“An intervention in Cuba would likely be linked to Trump’s and Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s desire to satisfy Cuban exiles who have provided significant financial support and backing to Trump.”

Who is John Perkins?

John Perkins is the author of Confessions of an Economic Hit Man, a book that made a global impact upon its publication in 2004. Perkins himself worked for many years as a financial operative for actors within the global economic system, giving him the opportunity to observe it from within. His book has been translated into more than 32 languages and sold over 1.2 million copies, remaining on bestseller lists for a long time.

Perkins has authored a total of 11 books, reaching millions of readers worldwide. His works are considered key references in discussions on global economics, debt policies, and international power relations. Through his writings and global lectures, he has become one of the most influential figures in bringing the concept of the “economic hit man” to international public attention.

Merz: “The U.S. Has No Strategy”

A similar criticism of the U.S.-Israel alliance’s war against Iran was voiced by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. Speaking at a panel, Merz responded to criticism by U.S. President Donald Trump that NATO had not provided support:

“They did not ask us anything before starting the war. This is unacceptable.”

Merz added:

“As far as I can tell, they have no strategy. First of all—what do you actually want? Is regime change really the goal? If that is the goal, I do not believe you will achieve it.”

He also addressed the issue of protecting the Strait of Hormuz, stating that such a move would require approval from the German Bundestag and a prior cabinet decision, noting that they are far from that point.