Israeli journalist Daphna Liel reports that Naftali Bennett is refusing to deny reports that he is holding talks with close aides of President Donald Trump. Liel says the fact that Bennett is keeping the channel discreet rather than boasting about it shows the communication is indeed active.
Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett is reportedly declining to deny reports of discreet talks with President Donald Trump's inner circle, according to journalist Daphna Liel (N12). Liel's assessment, shared Monday evening, is that Bennett's refusal to publicly address the reports — and his choice to maintain secrecy — is itself an indication that the channel is operational. This follows an earlier report by Liel (22:14) that a discreet communication channel between Bennett and the Trump administration was already active, as Washington anticipates a post-election shift in Israeli politics. The previous bulletin noted Liel's claim that the channel operates behind the scenes alongside other contacts the administration is pursuing with Israeli figures. Bennett has not issued an on-record response to the reports.
2 developments
- StrongSenior US official: We're talking to Netanyahu; Trump spoke with him yesterday
- DevelopingWSJ: Trump now routinely asks aides whether Netanyahu's account of their calls is accurate
- DevelopingTrump to call Netanyahu amid escalating tensions over Lebanon
- DevelopingNaftali Bennett to hold press conference tonight at 20:00
Source and signal
- Internal intake