Economist Podcasts Bibi driver: battles led by and within Israel
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Mar 24, 2025 
Greg Karlstrom, Middle East correspondent for The Economist, discusses the intense and escalating conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon. He highlights the humanitarian crisis and the internal struggles within Israel, particularly as Prime Minister Netanyahu faces increasing political challenges. The conversation also touches on the changing dynamics of U.S.-Mexico relations, emphasizing Claudia Sheinbaum’s strategic responses to U.S. policies. In a lighter moment, the podcast includes a tribute to Richard Fortey, a passionate paleontologist celebrated for his work on trilobites.
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Netanyahu's Political Calculations
- The resumption of fighting in Gaza is linked to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's political interests.
- He faced coalition instability if the ceasefire held and needed far-right support for the budget and his judicial reforms.
Netanyahu Targets Officials
- Netanyahu targets key officials: the former army chief, Shin Bet head Ronan Barr, and the attorney general.
- He seeks to consolidate power and evade corruption charges by removing those he perceives as threats.
Netanyahu's Power Consolidation
- Netanyahu's actions mirror past behavior and resemble Trump's rhetoric about a "deep state".
- Blaming others for October 7th, he deflects responsibility while consolidating his power.