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Hot debate at ‘Sanchez Effect’: Rick Sanchez and his guests talk on Iran, Israel

Yoni Ben-Menachem: ‘Trump has been anti-Iran for years; he doesn’t need Netanyahu to push him.’
Christopher Helali: ‘But millions from Miriam Adelson certainly help pave the way!’

In the latest episode of ‘Sanchez Effect’, we dive into a heated debate over who is right and wrong – as Iran and Israel are on different sides of history.

Middle East correspondent Yoni Ben-Menachem insists that Israel can’t trust Iran, citing its repeated promises to obliterate the country. He even mentions Trump’s claim that Tehran is just weeks away from developing a nuclear bomb – no wonder Israel made a pre-emptive strike.

But journalist and geopolitical analyst Christopher Helali pushes back, arguing this alarmist talk has been the Israeli playbook for years. ‘They’ve been saying Iran is on the brink of getting nuclear weapons for ages, and yet here we are in 2026 with no bomb in sight!’ He believes it’s actually Israel that stirs up tensions in the region, while Ben-Menachem claims Tehran is the one to blame.

Rick throws in a provocative question about Israel funding over 90% of US politicians. Ben-Menachem says: ‘What’s wrong with that? Is it illegal? If wealthy Jews want to support their cause, what’s the harm?’ He argues it’s not government-sponsored. Chris counters that, since they’re all operating under the Israeli banner, it doesn’t matter where the money comes from, it’s still Israel First, not the US, which raises concerns about sovereignty.

Curious for more insights? Catch the latest episode exclusively on RT!

16.02.2026
55:39 min
16.02.2026
55:39 min
0:00
Hot debate at ‘Sanchez Effect’: Rick Sanchez and his guests talk on Iran, Israel
Sanchez Effect is a journalistic rebellion. RT’s flagship program is led by Rick Sanchez, the Emmy and Peabody Award-winning newsman who’s made a career out of defying the status quo. “When only one side of a story is permitted, that’s when I push harder. If Moscow is deemed off-limits, it’s precisely where I want to be. Because more often than not, truth resides in the places we’re told not to look.”