Kushner Issues Firm Warning to Hamas: Surrender Arms or Face Full Israeli Action
During an exclusive interview with Fox News, Jared Kushner, the U.S. special envoy, made it clear that Hamas must follow through on its pledge to disarm or risk a complete Israeli …
During an exclusive interview with Fox News, Jared
During an exclusive interview with Fox News, Jared Kushner, the U.S. special envoy, made it clear that Hamas must follow through on its pledge to disarm or risk a complete Israeli offensive. Speaking from the region, Kushner emphasized that Washington would back Israel's efforts to 'finish the job' if the militant group failed to honor its commitments.
Kushner's remarks came after a series of high-stakes meetings in Egypt and Israel, where he pushed President Trump's Gaza peace initiative. The plan, which includes a phased ceasefire and the demilitarization of Gaza, faces significant hurdles as Israel continues airstrikes and Hamas refuses to lay down its weapons. Despite an October ceasefire, tensions remain high, with both sides accusing each other of violations.
In Cairo, Kushner met with Hamas representatives and the newly formed Palestinian technocratic government. He noted that the group reaffirmed its support for a 20-point peace framework and a separate 15-point roadmap developed over the past four months. However, Kushner expressed skepticism, stating, 'They said all the right things, but trusting a terrorist organization that has committed such atrocities is very difficult.' He stressed that actions, not words, would determine the path forward.
Kushner also met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin
Kushner also met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem, where the core disagreement centered on the sequencing of withdrawal and disarmament. Israel insists on full demilitarization before any further troop pullback or reconstruction, while Hamas demands a parallel process. Netanyahu, facing domestic political pressure, remains wary of phased compromises.
Despite the deadlock, Kushner voiced cautious optimism after a four-hour session with Israeli officials. He said the talks addressed 'misunderstandings and misinformation' and raised valid concerns that were clarified. Kushner reiterated that U.S. support for Gaza's reconstruction is contingent on demilitarization, and Israel retains the right to defend itself against imminent threats.
Kushner outlined a potential timeline, suggesting that progress could be visible within 30 days, with weapons removal and tunnel filling potentially occurring over the next 60 to 90 days. He framed this as a 'win-win' for Israel, eliminating a major security threat. The conflict, which began with Hamas's October 2023 attack that killed nearly 1,200 people and took over 240 hostages, has lasted nearly three years, leaving the region weary of war.
Kushner acknowledged the widespread desire for peace but
Kushner acknowledged the widespread desire for peace but noted the difficulty of building trust after years of erosion. He expressed confidence in President Trump's ability to broker a deal, citing his past successes in the Middle East. 'Trump has pulled off miracles before, and he's committed to doing what many think is impossible,' Kushner said, underscoring the administration's determination to see the plan through.