The Times of Israel Daily Briefing In State of the Union, Trump renews pledge to strike Iran if needed
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Feb 25, 2026 
Jacob Magid, U.S. bureau chief and reporter on U.S.-Israel relations, offers on-the-ground analysis. He breaks down Trump’s Iran rhetoric and strike threats. He reviews limited U.S. response to a West Bank settler killing and the embassy’s consular pop-ups in settlements. He covers the Board of Peace talks and the tough road to Gaza reconstruction.
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Trump Framed Iran As Immediate Military Threat
- Trump framed Iran as an imminent strategic threat to justify force rather than offering new policy details.
- Jacob Magid noted repetition of past claims, mixed messaging about whether Iran's nuclear program was destroyed in June or is restarting, and new emphasis on missiles reaching Europe and the U.S.
Military Buildup Lacks Clear Public Rationale
- The administration emphasized a larger U.S. military buildup in the region without clearly explaining strategic goals.
- Magid pointed out the largest U.S. troop and weapons presence since the Iraq War and questioned whether the focus is nuclear, ballistic missiles, or regime change.
U.S. Stays Quiet On Settler Violence Against Palestinians
- The U.S. response to settler violence was muted, limited to 'aware of' and condolences rather than strong pressure on Israeli authorities.
- Magid traced this to policy shifts: revoked sanctions on settler extremists and a choice to stay on the sidelines unless Gaza efforts are threatened.