Kushner Issues Ultimatum to Hamas Regarding Disarmament in Gaza

U.S. special envoy Jared Kushner issued a strong warning to Hamas, demanding the group disarm in Gaza or face Israeli military action. In an interview with Fox News correspondent Trey Yingst, Kushner highlighted key diplomatic meetings held in Egypt and Israel aimed at advancing President Donald Trump’s Gaza peace plan. Despite a ceasefire in October, Israel has conducted airstrikes and gained territory in Gaza, while Hamas has not relinquished its weapons.

Kushner first met Hamas representatives in Cairo. They discussed the new Palestinian technocratic government that aims to take control. Kushner reported that Hamas reaffirmed its commitment to Trump’s 20-point peace plan and a 15-point roadmap developed over four months. This plan requires them to give up their weapons.

Kushner stated: “Time will tell whether that’s going to be implemented.” He expressed optimism but warned that failure by Hamas to act would justify Israeli military action with U.S. support.

The meeting in Cairo marked Kushner’s second known interaction with the group. While he noted their assurances, trust remains a challenge given Hamas’s history. Nevertheless, Kushner described the meeting as cordial and is hopeful for action.

President Trump’s peace proposal includes a phased ceasefire, Gaza demilitarization, Israeli withdrawal, Palestinian governance transition, and international reconstruction efforts. On Monday, Kushner also met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. Key sticking points include the timeline for roadmap implementation. Israel insists on full demilitarization before further actions, while Hamas wants simultaneous withdrawal and disarmament.

With Israel facing political pressures, Netanyahu approaches compromises cautiously. Despite tensions, Kushner voiced optimism after talks with Israeli officials. He emphasized Washington’s reconstruction support hinges on demilitarization. “We will not allow Gaza to be rebuilt until demilitarization occurs,” he warned.

Kushner outlined a clear timeline for progress. He anticipates actions could begin within 30 to 90 days, including weapons removal and tunnel filling. Disarming Hamas could remove a significant security threat for Israel, he added.

The conflict follows Hamas’s Oct. 7, 2023, attack, killing nearly 1,200 people in southern Israel and taking over 240 hostages. Kushner noted Israel’s strong desire for peace after three years of war, acknowledging regional emotional fatigue and the challenge of rebuilding trust.

Kushner expressed confidence in President Trump’s ability to broker a deal, citing past successes in the Middle East as promising. Emma Bussey provides breaking news coverage for Fox News Digital. She previously worked with The Telegraph on various desks, including foreign, politics, news, sport, and culture.