Haaretz Podcast How Trump forced the Gaza deal through: Behind the scenes with Anshel Pfeffer
20 snips
Oct 9, 2025 Anshel Pfeffer, The Economist's Israel correspondent and Netanyahu biographer, shares his insights on the recent Gaza cease-fire deal. He emphasizes that while political willpower was essential, the deal was a complex process influenced by various factors, including Trump's pressure. Pfeffer anticipates mixed feelings among Israelis and discusses how Netanyahu will likely reshape the narrative to benefit his political ambitions ahead of elections. He also reflects on the long-term implications of the war for Israeli-Palestinian relations.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Three Issues Resolved In Whirlwind
- Three core issues were resolved quickly: hostages, prisoner list and IDF withdrawal line.
- The whirlwind pace showed momentum can overcome long-standing negotiation deadlock.
Political Will Trumps Technicalities
- Political willpower matters more than details in Middle East deals according to Anshel Pfeffer.
- Trump supplied decisive willpower which accelerated agreement momentum.
Doha Attack Accelerated Talks
- Multiple factors, not a single event, pushed negotiations into hyperspeed.
- The Doha attack accelerated a timetable already moving toward a deal.
