Commentary

Israeli officials indicate a desire to exhaust efforts to return the hostages – this is Hamas' last opportunity for a deal before the "Gideon's Chariots" operation begins.

The hostage release that exposed Netanyahu's strategic miscalculations.

As Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and other Arab nations look beyond the US to China and Russia, doubts linger about President Trump’s ability to reshape ties during his Middle East visit.

US-Israel ties at a historic crossroads following Trump’s Gulf tour. For the president, ending the Gaza war is key to shaping his legacy and reshaping the region. The “crown jewel”,  Israeli-Saudi normalization, remains elusive. Meanwhile, frustration with Netanyahu's delay tactics is growing in the White House.

Jerusalem officials say that in all contacts with Washington, the Americans repeatedly promise that Israeli interests will not be harmed, certainly not its security.

Two approaches to Israel’s foreign policy: bowing our heads and absorbing blows in the name of strategic interests, or confronting those who attack us and upholding our national dignity

One can always hope, or fantasize, that Washington and Jerusalem are more coordinated than meets the eye. America is cutting its Yemeni adventure at a strategic point from its perspective, to concentrate political discipline and military resources for the truly important mission – confronting Iran.

Despite his affection for Israel, Donald Trump is the president of the US, not of the Jewish state. This week, he’s headed to the Gulf, but expected to skip Israel - as his plan to “make America great again” is rooted in major financial deals. 

Imagine what it would mean, emotionally, psychologically, morally, if the next phase of this war leads to the execution of the hostages still alive.