Jared Kushner Warns Hamas: Israel Will Act If Deception Occurs in Gaza Disarmament Talks

In ongoing negotiations in Cairo, Jared Kushner, the US envoy and former advisor to President Trump, delivered a stern warning to Hamas leaders regarding their commitment to disarmament in Gaza. Kushner demanded a clear pledge from Hamas to fully relinquish weapons, cease military buildup, and allow Gaza's rehabilitation. He emphasized that Israel does not trust Hamas and that any attempt to deceive the process would lead to its immediate termination, with Israel acting unimpeded.

The warning came amid intelligence presented to the US and the Peace Council indicating that some Hamas factions might plan to renege on their disarmament commitments. Kushner's meeting with Khalil al-Hayya, a senior Hamas figure, was part of efforts to secure a binding agreement following previous talks that led to the release of all hostages.

Meanwhile, the Israeli military captured the terrorist responsible for a recent attack in Ouja after an intelligence-guided pursuit. Additional security incidents included an armed Israeli reservist entering the Palestinian village of Ein Arik and being detained by Palestinian security forces, and a mentally unstable Israeli spotted in Bethlehem who was handed over to authorities.

On the diplomatic front, the Syrian Foreign Ministry reiterated its refusal to accept any agreement limiting its military capabilities or alliances, emphasizing the occupied status of the Golan Heights and calling for Israeli withdrawal to pre-December 8, 2024 lines. The ministry also stressed the need to reduce tensions between Israel and Turkey to prevent spillover into Syria.

Hamas spokesman Hazem Qassem denied responsibility for recent kite terrorism, dismissing Israeli threats as attempts to justify continued aggression in Gaza, where Israel controls 70% of the territory. The European Union also condemned Israeli settlement plans in the West Bank's E1 area as illegal under international law and urged Israel to cancel tenders and halt construction.

These developments reflect heightened tensions and complex diplomatic efforts involving Israel, Hamas, Syria, and international actors as the region navigates security and political challenges.