Day 671 - US mum on potential Israeli plan to occupy 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 discusses how US President Donald Trump was very impacted by the the hostage videos that came out last week of an emaciated Evyatar David and Rom Braslavski, and he responded that Israel should do what it needs to regarding Gaza.

Trump isn't pushing Israel regarding its possible occupation plan of Gaza, but is planning to expand the Gaza Humanitarian Fund beyond its current three locations. Magid comments on GHF's need for funding, its reliance on US funding to date and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich's 180-degree turnaround on the matter and the need to give aid to Gaza.

Magid also examines the complex relationship between the US and the Palestinian Authority regarding financial support and governance, and the US denial of visas to Palestinian Authority officials as a form of pressure, while the PA's legitimacy is at risk due to its financial instability.

Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates.

For further reading:

Chiefly focused on food aid, Trump says Gaza occupation ‘pretty much up to Israel’

Almost 9 in 10 aid trucks looted before reaching Gaza destinations, UN figures show

Aiming to boost aid, Israel to allow gradual flow of goods to Gaza’s private sector

US to deny visas for PA officials over efforts to ‘internationalize’ the conflict

Hamstrung PA weighs options as Israel continues to withhold its much-needed funds

Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Ben Wallick.

IMAGE: US President Donald Trump speaks with reporters before boarding Air Force One at Lehigh Valley International Airport, August 3, 2025, in Allentown, Pennsylvania. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

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