Kushner: US, Israel Share Gaza Goals Despite Israeli Political "Irrationality"

Jared Kushner, former President Donald Trump's son-in-law and advisor, stated that the United States and Israel have a shared vision for the outcome in the Gaza Strip, while acknowledging disagreements stemming from Israel's political situation. Speaking in Kiev, Kushner commented that Israeli elections sometimes lead to "irrational" decisions. He noted, "We are facing political problems in Israel. Their elections are chaotic, which makes them sometimes irrational, but we are determined and we are working to solve these problems."

Kushner also highlighted the challenges of demilitarizing Gaza, pointing to the significant amount of weaponry in the enclave as a major obstacle to establishing new governance. He recalled that Hamas had previously signed an agreement for demilitarization but conceded its implementation would be difficult.

In mid-August, Kushner met with senior Hamas leader Khalil al-Haya in Egypt, alongside Mohammed Dahlan, to discuss the American roadmap. Hamas had announced its agreement to a second phase, which included an Israeli withdrawal, increased humanitarian aid, the establishment of an administrative committee for Gaza, and the launch of reconstruction efforts.

Meanwhile, Israel is reportedly developing a pilot project for specific areas of Gaza, inspired by a model used in southern Lebanon. According to Ynet, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yisrael Katz have tasked the IDF with creating a plan involving international forces in defined sectors to ensure security, establish new governance, and prevent Hamas's return, in coordination with the U.S.