Clinton and Sanders showed the bad blood between them at the CNN showdown in Brooklyn on Thursday.

The rivals traded barbs and jabs, at times shouting at each other over issues such as guns, the role of big money in US politics, America’s foreign policy debacles and the flawed criminal justice system.

Sanders slammed Clinton for her ‘poor judgment’ in advocating policies such as the US-led invasion of Iraq in 2003 and for supporting foreign free trade deals as well as taking money from Wall Street for her speeches.

"I question her judgment which voted for the war in Iraq, the worst foreign policy blunder in the history of this country," said the Vermont senator. "I question her judgment about running Super PACS that are collecting tens of millions of dollars from special interests ... I don't believe that is the kind of judgment we need."

Clinton in turn blasted Sanders for his vote in Congress for a bill that protected gun manufacturers from being sued over the criminal use of their products.

Clinton also said Sanders had shown his lack of depth on policy issues.

The two contenders also fought over the US support for Israel, with Sanders calling himself "100 percent pro-Israel" but adding that Middle East peace required treating "the Palestinian people with respect and dignity."

Sanders faces a tough challenge against Clinton as she leads by 251 delegates in the US presidential primaries, the next round of which is due next week in New York State.

Clinton’s lead will surge to almost 700 when the support of the so-called super delegates - party leaders who are free to back any candidate - are added, Press TV reported.

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