Day 481 - Trump's new deal - moving Gazans out of Gaza?

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.


Magid takes a look at President Donald Trump's first week in
office, including Trump's controversial comments regarding Gazans
and where they could be moved, even temporarily during the
reconstruction of parts of Gaza, and how Egypt and Jordan view
the influx of Palestinians as a security threat.


He also discusses Steve Witkoff's role in hostage negotiations
and his seemingly personal connection to the families of released
hostages, as Witkoff touches down in Israel for talks with Prime
Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about Saudi Arabia.


Magid shares insights from his interview with Barbara Leaf, a top
Middle East diplomat from the Biden administration as they
explored the ongoing challenges in Gaza post-war. Leaf expressed
regret over the lack of a post-war plan for Gaza, and commented
that recent developments in Syria and Lebanon could positively
impact regional stability.


Finally, Magid looks at the Trump administration's claims about
foreign aid spending during the Biden years, including a
humorous controversy regarding US foreign aid for supposed condom
distribution in Gaza.


This conversation can also be viewed here:


For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s
ongoing live blog.


Discussed articles include:


Trump says ‘would be nice’ to solve Iranian nuclear
crisis without Israeli strikes


Trump doubles down on proposal to move Gazans; insists
Egypt and Jordan will agree


‘We averted much worse’: Biden’s top Mideast diplomat
looks back on tumultuous term


Trump invites Netanyahu to visit White House; PM’s office
says meeting set for Feb. 4


White House: Biden allotted $50m for Gaza condoms;
ex-official denies ‘feverish dream’


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podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves.


IMAGE: At the entrance to a Tel Aviv conference entitled
'Opportunities for Israel under Trump,' in Tel Aviv. January 28,
2025. (Photo by Tomer Neuberg/Flash90)


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