Jack Khoury writes in Haaretz: ‘Those with sharp eyes and ears understand that the president, consciously or not, ignores the details. He talks in headlines – peace in the Middle East, improving the situation in Gaza, humanitarian aid and regional stability. These are grand slogans, but empty of practical content.’

Khoury adds: ‘In Gaza and the entire Palestinian arena, people are aware of this. They understand that 2026 is shaping up to be a year of the status quo, one of only cosmetic change that will not threaten the continued rule of Netanyahu and enable Trump to keep saying "things have changed."’

The world and Trump – is there much of a difference between the world and Trump? – are distracted by Venezuela, which is not much of a surprise.

The Gazans will be left to their own devices, the outrage will be smoldering, at best.

The remaining question: is Iran another Venezuela?

(a sf 2020)