Podcast Title: All Of It
Episode Title: 'The Bibi Files' Follows the Investigation into Netanyahu's Alleged Corruption
Host: Alison Stewart
Release Date: January 16, 2025
Available on: Jolt Film

Introduction

In this compelling episode of All Of It, host Alison Stewart delves deep into the intricate and often controversial political landscape of Israel through the lens of the new documentary, The Bibi Files. This documentary scrutinizes former Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's alleged corruption and his pivotal role in the nation's ongoing conflicts. Joining Alison is the documentary's director, Alexis Bloom, who provides invaluable insights into the creation and implications of the film.

Overview of 'The Bibi Files'

The Bibi Files is a groundbreaking documentary that meticulously traces the corruption allegations against Benjamin Netanyahu, marking him as the first Israeli prime minister to testify as a defendant in an alleged corruption investigation. The film incorporates leaked footage from private police interrogations featuring Netanyahu, his wife, close associates, and various witnesses. Praised for its in-depth analysis and revealing content, The Bibi Files has been shortlisted for Best Documentary at this year's Academy Awards.

Key Discussions

1. Netanyahu's Corruption Allegations and Legal Proceedings

Alison introduces the episode by highlighting the unprecedented nature of Netanyahu's legal battles. As the first Israeli prime minister to testify in court as a defendant, Netanyahu's situation is both historically significant and intensely polarizing. The documentary presents leaked police interrogation tapes that shed light on the intricate web of corruption allegations, including gifts for favors and bribes. These tapes feature not only Netanyahu but also his wife, Yair Netanyahu, and other key figures.

Notable Quote:

“The wall became another instrument to stay in power... he survives when our enemies fight each other.”
— Ami Aylan, former commander in chief of Shin Bet ([02:25])

2. Insights from Director Alexis Bloom

In her conversation with Alison, Alexis Bloom elaborates on the meticulous process involved in uncovering and authenticating the leaked tapes. She emphasizes the challenges posed by language barriers, necessitating collaboration with Hebrew-speaking experts to accurately translate and interpret the material. Bloom sought to highlight the human behaviors and personal dynamics that reveal Netanyahu's vulnerabilities, capturing moments of irritation, anger, and paranoia.

Notable Quote:

“[03:40] Alex got a lot of messages... some completely kooky. But he saw the tapes were indeed police interrogations.”

3. Securing High-Profile Interviews

Bloom discusses the strategic efforts to secure interviews with influential figures such as former Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and former head of Shin Bet, Ami Aylan. These interviews provide critical perspectives on Netanyahu's political strategies and personal conduct. Bloom notes the difficulty in convincing certain individuals to speak candidly, especially those who had to navigate fear and pressure while dealing with Netanyahu's retaliatory practices.

Notable Quote:

“[08:20] Some were a little harder... but I developed a relationship with the people in the film.”

4. Sarah Netanyahu's Influence and Role

A significant portion of the documentary examines Sarah Netanyahu's impactful role in her husband's political life. Bloom portrays her as both an entertaining and formidable presence, capable of orchestrating loyalty and managing critical political decisions. Sarah's aggressive demeanor and influence are depicted as key factors in Netanyahu's ability to maintain his political resilience and navigate complex political landscapes.

Notable Quote:

“She is, you know, by many accounts an alcoholic... she's really important politically because she has his ear.”
— Alexis Bloom ([14:27])

5. Media Manipulation: The Walla Case

The documentary explores allegations that Netanyahu leveraged his influence to control the media platform Walla, steering its content to ensure favorable coverage. Bloom explains that this manipulation was orchestrated through Netanyahu's communications head and his son, Yair Netanyahu, who is active on social media. The strategic takeover of Walla is presented as a tool to maintain a positive public image amidst mounting legal challenges.

Notable Quote:

“...there's a lot of lines going back. Coincidentally or not, the owner of Walla… suddenly gets a reprieve from this regulatory benefit paper.”
— Alexis Bloom ([17:05])

6. Political Alliances with the Far Right

Netanyahu's alliances with far-right factions are dissected, revealing that these partnerships are essential for sustaining his political power within Israel's coalition-based system. Bloom argues that Netanyahu's cooperation with extremist groups is purely strategic, aimed at preserving his position rather than ideological alignment. This alliance is especially critical following his corruption indictment, which alienated centrist and left-wing parties.

Notable Quote:

“These are the only people who will share power with him... they saw him as the Messiah's donkey.”
— Alexis Bloom ([21:25])

7. Current Events: Ceasefire Agreement and Netanyahu's Response

The episode also touches upon the recent proposed ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Bloom expresses cautious optimism about the agreement's sustainability and criticizes Netanyahu's hesitant stance, attributing his indecisiveness to his fragile political coalition and personal vulnerabilities. She underscores the tragic human cost of the conflict, emphasizing the urgency of the ceasefire for both Palestinians and hostages.

Notable Quote:

“I'm just praying that this is going to hold... Netanyahu is now shuffling his feet.”
— Alexis Bloom ([22:56])

8. Lessons for the United States

Bloom draws parallels between Netanyahu's prioritization of loyalty over integrity and similar political strategies observed in the United States. She cautions against the dangers of valuing loyalist appointments at the expense of ethical governance, highlighting the critical importance of integrity in political leadership.

Notable Quote:

“When you look at the criteria for Trump's appointments, loyalty seems to be very high on the list of priorities. And that doesn't lead you to a good place.”
— Alexis Bloom ([24:36])

Notable Quotes Summary

• Ami Aylan on Netanyahu’s political survival:
  “[02:25] The wall became another instrument to stay in power... he survives when our enemies fight each other.”

• Alexis Bloom on the leak discovery:
  “[03:40] Alex got a lot of messages... some completely kooky. But he saw the tapes were indeed police interrogations.”

• Bloom on Netanyahu's attempt to block the film:
  “[07:20] He’s incredibly thin-skinned... desperate to stop the film being seen.”

• Reflection on corruption indictment:
  “[12:21] His indictment is everything... he decided to fight in a dirtier way.”

• On media influence:
  “[19:36] They are media obsessed... it means that you focus on every tweet, every story.”

Conclusion

Alison Stewart's investigation into The Bibi Files offers listeners a profound and nuanced understanding of Benjamin Netanyahu's political maneuvers, personal vulnerabilities, and the broader implications for Israeli society and governance. Through Alexis Bloom's incisive direction, the documentary not only illuminates the complexities of Netanyahu's corruption allegations but also paints a vivid picture of the interplay between power, media, and personal influence in the political arena. This episode underscores the essential role of investigative journalism in uncovering truths and fostering informed public discourse.

Further Information

The Bibi Files is currently available for rent on Jolt Film. For more insightful discussions on culture, politics, and society, tune into All Of It weekdays from 12:00 - 2:00 PM on WNYC.