Can Israel remain a true democracy without a constitution, or is it already ruled by unelected judges?
In this episode of “Straight Up,” Danny Seaman, former senior official at the Prime Minister’s Office, is joined by two special guests: Yisca Bina, director of the Movement for Governability and Democracy; and Ziv Maor, news director of Galei Israel Radio and a Channel 14 panelist.
Together, they deliver an important update on Israel’s legal crisis, the overreach of its Supreme Court and the real battle for Israel’s national identity.
This episode breaks down:
How former Chief Justice Aharon Barak quietly redefined judicial power in 1995
Why Israel’s lack of a constitution makes judicial reform essential
The political nature of Israel’s legal system and how it undermines elected leadership
The unprecedented power of Israel’s Supreme Court to override government decisions, including wartime policy
Why the Shin Bet chief’s refusal to step down poses a threat to democratic governance
- How international law is selectively applied by Israel’s courts—and the resulting consequences
This episode also draws parallels to American legal culture, including comparisons to J. Edgar Hoover and U.S. constitutional mechanisms, highlighting the dangers of unchecked judicial supremacy.
See more at: @JNS_TV. And don’t forget to hit the subscribe button!
JNS will host its inaugural International Policy Summit on Monday, April 28, 2025. This daylong event will convene government officials, policymakers, diplomats, security experts, leaders of pro-Israel organizations, and influencers for vital discussions aimed at addressing Israel’s critical challenges and opportunities in a post-Oct. 7 world.
To learn more about the event, click here. Follow JNS on social media for updates, including live streams from the event.
