Kushner Criticizes Israeli Gaza Policy Amid Elections

Jared Kushner, former President Trump's senior advisor and son-in-law, has offered a rare critique of Israel's approach to the Gaza Strip, suggesting that the ongoing election cycle is making Israeli decision-making "a little irrational" on certain issues. Kushner made these remarks during a visit to Kyiv, Ukraine, alongside U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, following meetings in Moscow with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

While the primary focus of their trip was to discuss ending the Russia-Ukraine war, Kushner elaborated on the U.S. administration's policy for Gaza. He acknowledged that while there is agreement with Israel on the desired end state for Gaza, the "crazy elections" in Israel are impacting their approach. The U.S. plan for Gaza involves disarming Hamas and other militant groups, establishing a technocratic Palestinian government, and rebuilding the territory. Reports indicate the plan links Gaza's demilitarization to further Israeli withdrawal, but disagreements between Jerusalem and Washington are hindering progress.

Kushner admitted that the U.S. is only beginning to grasp the extent of militarization by terror groups in Gaza, describing the disarmament process as complex and lengthy. He noted the establishment of a new, non-Fatah, non-Hamas technocratic Palestinian government, but stated that control cannot be transferred as long as militant groups retain their weapons. This follows the January announcement by Witkoff of the second phase of Trump's 20-point plan for Gaza, which includes establishing a temporary technocratic administration and fully disarming the territory, particularly Hamas.

Kushner also presented a positive view of U.S. aid efforts in Gaza, claiming a significant reduction in malnutrition rates due to extensive aid. He described Gaza's past as dysfunctional, built by NGOs and terrorists, and a "dystopian place." His comments highlight significant differences between Israel and the U.S. on the timeline and methods for achieving a disarmed Gaza free of Hamas rule, with Kushner explicitly linking these disputes to the upcoming Israeli elections.

The U.S. delegation's visit to Kyiv, following their talks with Putin, included meetings with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and other international officials. Witkoff emphasized the importance of direct communication with both sides of the conflict to find a peaceful resolution, stating that Trump seeks a diplomatic, not military, solution. Kushner likened negotiations to business deals where both sides benefit, contrasting it with war where everyone loses.