The Times of Israel Daily Briefing Day 816 - In Florida, a jovial Trump is hawkish on Gaza and Iran
5 snips
Dec 30, 2025 
Lazar Berman, a diplomatic correspondent reporting from Florida, discusses the recent meeting between Prime Minister Netanyahu and President Trump. The tone was pleasantly collegial, while they explored the possibility of Israeli strikes on Iran. Berman highlights skepticism about a disarmament deadline for Hezbollah and Trump's mixed signals on Gaza's hostage situation. There's also intriguing talk about Turkey's potential role in Gaza mediation and the implications of F-35 sales. The podcast sheds light on complex U.S.-Israeli relations amid regional tensions.
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Warm Public Rapport Between Leaders
- Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu displayed highly positive body language and mutual praise during their meeting in Florida.
- Their public warmth reinforced a genuinely cooperative tone despite reported behind-the-scenes disagreements.
Military Threat Frames Iran Diplomacy
- Trump openly said the U.S. would back or join an Israeli strike if Iran advances its missile or nuclear programs.
- Both leaders favor diplomacy backed by a credible military threat to coerce Iran to unfavorable terms.
Deadlines Create Leverage, Not Certainty
- The December 31 Hezbollah disarmament deadline is effectively impossible to meet, according to Lebanon and observers.
- Netanyahu and Trump believe the looming threat of Israeli military action helps push diplomacy forward despite limited faith in Lebanese enforcement.