Daily Briefing May 19 – Will Israel heed international pressure for ceasefire?

Welcome to The Times of Israel’s Daily Briefing, your 15-minute audio update on what’s happening in Israel, the Middle East, and the Jewish world, from Sunday through Thursday.

Today’s panel comprises editor David Horovitz and political correspondent Tal Schneider, along with host Amanda Borschel-Dan.

Israel is hearing a chorus of condemnations from international leaders as they attempt to steer the ongoing conflict with the Gaza Strip toward a ceasefire on this tenth day of fighting. Could both sides lay down their arms anytime soon?

Even as the Palestinian-Israeli conflict continues in crisis mode, Israel still does not have a stable government. Yesh Atid head Yair Lapid has until June 2 to forge a coalition, but the “change bloc” coalition appears to be out of reach. What will happen next in the Knesset as strange political bedfellows are again reportedly in talks?

As President Reuven Rivlin’s term comes to an end, a number of prominent Israelis are throwing their hats into the ring. The deadline is tonight for officially announcing candidacy. Schneider explains who the front-runners are and how the president is chosen.

Discussed articles include:

Israel, Hamas deny ceasefire expected on Thursday, as US ups pressure

France circulates draft UN Security Council resolution urging Gaza ceasefire

EU top diplomat urges Israel-Palestinian ceasefire after meeting of FMs

Hungary FM slams EU’s ‘one-sided’ statements on Israel

Sa’ar said weighing power-sharing government with Netanyahu, if made PM first

Netanyahu, Gantz said to weigh fresh partnership; all sides strongly deny notion

Isaac Herzog announces candidacy for presidency as race warms up

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