The Slow Newscast Trump's Dealmaker: Steve Witkoff and Gaza
9 snips
Mar 4, 2025 
Steve Witkoff, a real estate mogul pivotal in Gaza ceasefire negotiations, reflects on his unexpected role in diplomatic tensions. He recounts his crucial meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu just before Trump’s inauguration. The conversation dives into Witkoff's unique negotiation style, shaped by personal loss and real estate savvy. Listeners gain insight into the complexities of hostages, Israeli politics, and the humanitarian fallout in Gaza, leaving a thought-provoking take on peace prospects and reconstruction efforts.
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Netanyahu's Precarious Position
- Netanyahu faced sliding poll ratings, a criminal trial, and blame for security failures before October 7th.
- These issues made him a politically toxic brand.
Netanyahu's Rejection of the Deal
- The proposed ceasefire deal was unacceptable to Netanyahu's right-wing government.
- It risked collapsing his coalition due to internal opposition.
Netanyahu's Lack of Urgency
- Netanyahu felt no pressure to accept a ceasefire deal, having achieved key military gains.
- The assassination of Hamas and Hezbollah leaders, and the fall of Assad in Syria, worked in his favor.