In the latest edition of Lever Time, producer Arjun Singh talks to Oscar-winning filmmaker Alex Gibney about his latest documentary The Bibi Files, which uncovers explosive new police footage from the corruption trial of increasingly besieged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The podcast comes the same week the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu — and the U.S. Senate voted down a measure to block military aid to Netanyahu’s government.
Gibney, known for his investigative documentaries, sheds light on the allegations against Netanyahu, including bribery and media manipulation. The film, which the Israeli leader tried to block with an unsuccessful lawsuit, reveals leaked footage of Netanyahu during police interrogations. In the podcast, Gibney reflects on Netanyahu’s political tactics, including his controversial dealings with Hamas, that have led some Democratic lawmakers to now oppose arms sales to Israel and an international warrant for his arrest.
The conversation also touches on the broader implications of Netanyahu’s actions, his role in the Gaza conflict, and how his leadership has contributed to widespread division within Israel. Gibney draws comparisons to other corrupt leaders he’s documented, exploring the psychology behind political misconduct, right-wing authoritarianism, and the lengths some will go to stay in power.
Also, for paid subscribers:
LEVER TIME PREMIUM: Handbook For The Politically Deceased With Sen. Chris Murphy
Exclusively for paid subscribers. In a special Lever Time post-election bonus episode, David Sirota and Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) discuss why lower-income and working-class voters have abandoned Democrats for Trump — and how the party can win back their support by embracing economic populism and addressing voters’ clear rejection of the corporate-backed status quo.
