Welcome to The Times of Israel’s Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what’s happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world.
US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today’s episode.
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US President Donald Trump made headlines this morning by announcing that Israeli and Lebanese “leaders” were set to speak directly to each other today. It was later announced that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will speak with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun. Magid weighs in on this historic planned phone call and discusses this week’s talks in Washington, DC, between Israeli and Lebanese representatives, the highest-level meeting between the countries to date.
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At the same time, no dates have been decided for the second round of talks between the US and Iran. There are reports that nuclear issues are among the subjects being discussed by the countries, and that talks may resume in Pakistan. Magid explains.
The Gaza Board of Peace gave Hamas until the end of last week to accept a disarmament proposal. Magid reports how the terrorist organization has answered with several “yes, but” responses.
Finally we turn to a pair of resolutions that were voted down by the US Senate that were aimed at preventing sales of weapons and bulldozers to Israel. We hear how Wednesday’s vote saw the vast majority of Democrats vote in favor of the ban, demonstrating a substantive shift in the party’s approach toward Israel.
Check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing liveblog for more updates.
For further reading:
Security cabinet said to consider one-week Lebanon ceasefire amid US pressure
Israeli, Lebanese envoys hold historic summit in Washington to discuss peace deal
US Senate foils effort to nix Israel arms sale, but 75% of Democrats vote to block it
Hamas not expected to okay disarmament offer by Saturday deadline, but talks ongoing
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