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.

US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode.

Magid reviews the chaotic conflict that unfolded in Syria over the last days between the Syrian Druze minority, the Bedouin in Syria, and at times, Syrian-linked militia troops. US pressure on Israel pushed forward a quick resolution on the situation, bringing forward a ceasefire and Magid points out that Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa ultimately wants the various ethnic groups in Syria, including the Druze and Bedouin, to fall in line, particularly as Syria and Israel have been moving forward toward more cooperation.

As ultra-Orthodox party Shas left its ministerial positions in the government in protest over the proposed Haredi enlistment law, Magid discusses whether the Shas move could lead to early elections after the upcoming summer session break.

A Gaza deal seems possible, says Magid, as Israel rolled back some of its demands regarding aspects of its withdrawal from Gaza, and mediators are currently more optimistic regarding a possible deal.

Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates.

For further reading:

Syrian gov’t forces begin withdrawing from Sweida as Israel vows to protect Druze

Rubio: ‘We think we’re on our way toward a real deescalation’ between Israel, Syria

Shas bolts government over Haredi enlistment, remains part of PM’s coalition

Official says Gaza deal ‘more likely than not,’ as Israel said to retract pullback demands

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: Druze residents protest near the Israel-Syria border fence in solidarity with their community in Syria, July 16, 2025. (Photo by Michael Giladi/Flash90)

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