Kushner to Meet Netanyahu to Promote Trump's Gaza Plan

A rare diplomatic encounter unfolded in Cairo on Tuesday when Jared Kushner, the U.S. president’s son‑in‑law, met privately with senior Hamas officials. The meeting, held at the Egyptian Foreign Ministry, was the first of its kind in several months and drew attention for its potential to influence the stalled Gaza ceasefire talks. The following day, the United States and Israel convened a high‑level briefing in Washington to review the implications of the Cairo dialogue and to outline a coordinated approach to the ongoing conflict.

The Washington session brought together senior officials from the State Department, the Department of Defense, and the White House National Security Council, as well as Israeli counterparts from the Foreign Ministry and the Defense Ministry. Participants discussed the content of the Kushner‑Hamas exchange, assessed the prospects for a negotiated settlement, and considered the role of Egypt as a mediator. They also reviewed intelligence on recent hostilities, humanitarian needs in Gaza, and the feasibility of a phased ceasefire that would allow for the delivery of aid and the return of displaced civilians.

Both sides underscored the importance of maintaining open channels with Hamas while reaffirming Israel’s security concerns. The briefing concluded with a joint statement calling for a renewed ceasefire framework and the initiation of humanitarian corridors. The U.S. pledged continued diplomatic engagement, and Israel indicated readiness to participate in a broader, multilateral effort to stabilize the region.