U.S. special envoy Jared Kushner issued a direct warning to Hamas on Monday. He stated that Hamas must disarm in Gaza or face a potential Israeli military operation to conclude ongoing conflicts. Kushner shared these insights in an interview with Fox News chief foreign correspondent Trey Yingst.
Kushner detailed diplomatic efforts in Egypt and Israel over the last 48 hours to advance President Donald Trump’s peace plan for Gaza. Despite ongoing conflicts between Israel and Hamas, Kushner emphasized the need for progress.
Israel has continued air strikes and territorial advances in Gaza, disregarding an October ceasefire agreement. Meanwhile, Hamas remains resistant to surrendering its weapons, as reported by Reuters.
“Time will tell whether that’s going to be implemented,”Kushner stated, reflecting on group commitments to peace plans.
Kushner’s engagements included a meeting with Hamas in Cairo. The National Committee, a new Palestinian government entity, participated to facilitate control transitions. During discussions, Hamas reiterated its pledge to Trump’s 20-point peace plan and a separate roadmap aimed at disarmament.
Kushner added that Washington feels close to significant progress.
“If they don’t follow through now on their commitment, everyone will see that they’re not genuine about peace,”he warned. This statement underscores the potential for increased U.S. and international support for Israeli measures if Hamas fails to deliver.This encounter marked only Kushner’s second meeting with the group. Despite expressing cautious optimism, Kushner emphasized that trust in a terrorist organization, given its history, remains difficult. However, he noted the meeting was cordial and promising.
The U.S.-led peace plan involves a phased ceasefire, Gaza demilitarization, Israeli troop withdrawal, Palestinian governance, and international reconstruction. Discussions in Israel continued, involving Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The timeline for road map actions remains a key point of negotiation.
Israel insists on complete demilitarization before withdrawal or reconstruction, whereas Hamas demands simultaneous actions. Netanyahu, under political pressure due to upcoming elections, approaches phased compromises with caution.
“We will not allow Gaza to be rebuilt until demilitarization occurs,”Kushner declared, affirming U.S. commitment to Israel’s security and right to self-defense against threats.Kushner mentioned potential progress regarding disarmament processes within 30 to 90 days. This timeline reflects anticipated steps in removing weapons and closing tunnels.
The conflict traces back to Hamas’ October attack, which resulted in significant casualties and hostages in Israel. For years now, the ongoing strife has placed a tremendous strain on the region.
Kushner expressed that people throughout the region are weary of war and crave change. However, trust-building remains a challenge given the eroded confidence between parties.
President Trump seeks to foster a lasting resolution.
“We see a lot of positive indications, and President Trump has pulled off miracles before in the Middle East,”Kushner remarked, showing faith in the President’s role as a broker for peace.