How Bibi could end Israel's democracy (or get ousted)

How Bibi could end Israel's democracy (or get ousted) | GZERO World with Ian Bremmer

Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak has a chilling warning about the future of Israeli democracy: The government's judicial overhaul plan puts the very foundations of Israeli democracy at risk.

In an interview with Ian Bremmer on GZERO World, Barak explains that the reforms could erode the independence of the courts and weaken minority protections. Barak also accuses current PM Benjamin "Bibi" Netanyahu of hiding his true motives, describing his far-right coalition government as legal yet "illegitimate."

As protests continue across the country, Barak says that Bibi faces an uncomfortable choice: Push ahead and harm democracy, or pull back and likely lose his job.

The ex-PM, who was in uniform for 36 years, also shares personal stories of Israel's sacrifices. He urges others to give meaning to those who have paid the ultimate price.

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