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 Jessica Steinberg for today’s episode.
Following US President Donald Trump’s announcement of a truce with the Houthis, Magid discusses Jerusalem’s surprise in light of the ongoing Houthi missile attacks on Israel, including one Sunday morning that hit inside the grounds of Ben Gurion International Airport.
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Magid explores Israel’s new proposal for distributing humanitarian aid in Gaza to prevent Hamas from diverting resources and getting the food into Gazans’ hands. The plan includes working with humanitarian organizations and private US contractors and will allow some 60 trucks into Gaza daily through one border crossing. Food packages will be given directly to approved representatives of Palestinian families.
Trump is expected in the Middle East next week but isn’t including a stop in Israel. Magid examines how hostages’ families are viewing the trip as a possible opportunity to bring their loved ones home. Families have also expressed concern over recent statements from the US president, as well as Sara Netanyahu, the wife of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, that indicate there are fewer living hostages than thought.
Finally, Magid discusses a downgrading of US ties with the Palestinian Authority, with the elimination of the US Security Coordinator role, which helps bolster security coordination between Israel and the Palestinian Authority. It’s part of a reorganization of the State Department by Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
The conversation can also be viewed here:
Check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing liveblog for more updates.
For further reading:
Trump announces US truce with Houthis, who say their strikes on Israel will continue
IDF planning major shift in Gaza aid delivery in bid to thwart Hamas diversion
US hostage families see Trump’s May trip to region as chance for loved ones’ return
US plans to eliminate security post tasked with bolstering Israel-PA security ties
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