The Times of Israel Daily Briefing Day 668 - After Witkoff tours Gaza, Trump repeats there's no genocide
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Aug 4, 2025 Jacob Magid, US Bureau Chief at The Times of Israel, provides keen insights on the complexities of the ongoing conflict. He discusses a historic moment when a government minister led prayers at the Temple Mount, igniting political tensions. Magid also reports on the humanitarian struggles in Gaza, sharing poignant stories from locals facing life-threatening challenges just to find food. Additionally, he touches on the stalemate in hostage negotiations and explores how Trump is interpreting the situation in the region.
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Ben-Gvir Breaks Temple Mount Status Quo
- National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir prayed overtly on the Temple Mount, violating the status quo.
- The Israeli government denies any change despite regional condemnation, stirring tensions.
Shift in Hostage Negotiation Strategy
- U.S. Envoy Steve Witkoff's visit focused on Gaza humanitarian conditions, not hostage negotiations.
- Israeli strategy shifts from partial hostage deals to military pressure aimed at Hamas disarmament.
Hostage Families Unite on Release Terms
- Hostage families demand all hostages be freed to accept any deal, rejecting phased releases.
- This aligns hawkish and more moderate family groups despite their political differences.