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Jared Kushner, former senior adviser and son-in-law to President Donald Trump, played a pivotal role in negotiating a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas. Working alongside Trump's Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, Kushner helped finalize an agreement that aims to end a two-year conflict and secure the release of hostages from Gaza.
Kushner and Witkoff met with senior Hamas officials in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, to break a deadlock in the talks. According to a report by The Times of Israel, the meeting was crucial in reaching an agreement. President Trump had privately authorized the meeting to ensure progress. The deal was announced shortly after their discussions.
Kushner's involvement in the peace talks is part of his broader diplomatic efforts in the Middle East. He previously played a key role in the Abraham Accords, which normalized relations between Israel and several Arab states. His approach to diplomacy, characterized by a focus on deal-making, has drawn both praise and criticism. While some commend his ability to navigate complex negotiations, others raise concerns about potential conflicts of interest due to his business dealings in the region.
Despite these concerns, the White House defends Kushner's role, emphasizing his dedication to securing peace. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated, "Jared is donating his energy and his time to our government, to the president of the United States, to secure world peace, and that is a very noble thing."
As the first phase of the agreement is implemented, Kushner is expected to remain actively involved in the ongoing negotiations. His efforts in the region continue to shape his legacy, with a focus on achieving lasting peace over business interests.