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In a surprise move, CBS News chief Bari Weiss negotiated a highly sought-after interview with former Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as part of its flagship news magazine show, “60 Minutes.” According to sources, Weiss offered Netanyahu the choice of interviewer, pitting veteran correspondent Lesley Stahl against Major Garrett. However, Netanyahu’s team reportedly opted for Garrett, effectively sidelining Stahl after months of pursuing the interview.
This decision came as a surprise, particularly considering Stahl’s long-standing reputation for tough, in-depth questioning. Known for her incisive interviews with various high-profile figures, Stahl has been a staple at CBS News for decades. Stahl’s involvement in the Netanyahu interview had been months in the making, with the former Prime Minister’s team consistently expressing interest in sitting down with her.
In contrast, Garrett, a seasoned correspondent and analyst, brought a more nuanced perspective to the table. A veteran of both CBS News and Fox News, Garrett has a proven track record of conducting thoughtful, well-researched interviews with key figures.
Details surrounding the reasoning behind Netanyahu’s team choosing Garrett are scarce, although it’s worth noting that both Garrett and Stahl are highly respected journalists with extensive experience in conducting high-stakes interviews. It’s also possible that Netanyahu’s team may have been drawn to Garrett’s unique insight as a former network analyst and a long-standing observer of Israeli politics.
This development has sparked a flurry of speculation within the journalism community, with some interpreting the decision as a snub by Netanyahu’s team towards Stahl. However, in a statement, CBS News representatives declined to comment on the matter, citing ongoing preparations for the broadcast.
Given Netanyahu’s high profile and contentious reputation, securing this interview marked a significant coup for CBS News. As part of the network’s efforts to deliver unparalleled coverage of international news, Weiss’s negotiation has once again underscored the channel’s commitment to engaging with key global figures and delivering impactful, thought-provoking programming.
Netanyahu’s interview with Garrett is set to air on a subsequent episode of “60 Minutes.”