Welcome to The Times of Israel’s Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what’s happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world.

Today is day 176 of the war with Hamas. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode.

Magid spent much of last week in Washington with Defense Minister Yoav Gallant during his meetings regarding the ongoing war against Hamas in Gaza. We hear several updates from that reporting trip, including what the atmosphere was like.

The Washington Post reported Friday that the United States has authorized the transfer of billions of dollars worth of bombs and fighter jets to Israel even as it publicly expresses concerns about an anticipated military offensive in Rafah. With all the overt criticism against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's conduct, which body made the decision to approve the new arms?

The Palestinian Authority is making changes apparently in an effort to become a more viable player to help rule the Gaza Strip the day after the war with Hamas. Magid weighs in, including the new cabinet that was installed last week and the attempts by the US to change the PA's ongoing pay-to-slay policy.

The US informed Israel this week that the Biden administration’s sanctions against violent settlers are not intended to compel Israeli banks to close the accounts of targeted individuals. What's the back story behind this unusual letter?

For the latest updates, please see The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog.

Discussed articles include:

Live blog March 30, 2024

Gallant seeks to smooth over tensions after PM’s cancellation leaves him alone in DC

US approves transfer of over 2,000 bombs, 25 F-35s to Israel — report

Integrating PA into Gaza aid efforts offers pilot to post-war governance, say experts

PA in final stages of talks with US to reform ‘pay-to-slay’ policy – sources

US says Israeli banks don’t have to close accounts of sanctioned settlers

THOSE WE HAVE LOST: Civilians and soldiers killed in Hamas's onslaught on Israel

THOSE WE ARE MISSING: The hostages and victims whose fate is still unknown

Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves.

IMAGE: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, left, and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas shake hands during their meeting in the West Bank town of Ramallah, February 7, 2024. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein, Pool)

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