US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have taken steps to undermine the rule of law, sparking a constitutional crisis in both countries. This is eerily reminiscent of the erosion of institutions in America under Trump’s leadership.
Netanyahu recently announced plans to fire the head of Israel’s equivalent of the FBI, Ronen Bar, due to “loss of trust” despite no evidence to support this claim. However, many suspect foul play, particularly given Netanyahu’s own involvement in the Qatar-gate scandal, which has serious implications for national security and could lead to treason charges.
In contrast, Israel’s independent attorney general Gali Baharav-Miara has challenged Netanyahu’s decision, citing his own corruption trial as a reason to recuse himself from appointing new officials. This sets up a constitutional crisis in Israel that mirrors the challenges faced by the US judicial branch under Trump’s presidency.
The parallels between the two situations are concerning. The erosion of institutions and the disregard for checks on power pose significant threats to democracy and the rule of law. It is essential to draw red lines and defend these institutions, lest we risk a slow-motion collapse of the very foundations of our societies.
Source: https://gvwire.com/2025/03/17/democracy-is-on-the-line-in-israel-and-america-right-now