US adviser Kushner arrives in Israel after Hamas disarmament talks in Egypt
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US presidential adviser Jared Kushner arrived in Israel on Aug 17 for talks with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a day after meeting Hamas leaders in Egypt. Hamas reaffirmed its readiness to disarm and demilitarize Gaza, while Kushner said Washington would seek reciprocal steps from Israel if the group acts. Hamas also said implementation of the second phase requires an end to Israeli attacks, a troop withdrawal, sustained aid and reconstruction.
Key Facts
- Hamas leaders confirmed to Kushner in Egypt on Aug 16 their readiness to begin disarmament and demilitarization of the Gaza Strip.
- Kushner told Hamas that the disarmament issue is not subject to revision and demanded concrete steps, saying Washington would seek corresponding actions from Israel if Hamas acts.
- Hamas said the second phase must be accompanied by an end to Israeli attacks, an Israeli troop withdrawal, sustained humanitarian aid and the start of reconstruction.
- Hamas told Kushner it would begin disarmament only after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly confirms commitment to the plan terms.
- Egypt, Qatar and Turkey confirmed support for US efforts to stabilize Gaza and warned against undermining the Sharm el-Sheikh agreements.
The Egypt-Hamas Meeting
Kushner met Hamas leaders in Egypt on Aug 16, one day before his arrival in Israel. Hamas representatives confirmed their readiness to begin disarmament and demilitarization of the Gaza Strip. Kushner thanked the movement for the commitment but said Washington wants to see real efforts, not just words. He added that the disarmament issue is not subject to revision and that Washington will seek corresponding steps from Israel if Hamas acts.
Conditions and Mediation
Hamas said the second phase must be accompanied by an end to Israeli attacks, a withdrawal of Israeli troops, sustained humanitarian aid and the start of reconstruction. The movement called on mediators and the Peace Council to ensure Israel fulfils its obligations and accepts the road map. Kushner held talks the same day with Egyptian, Qatari and Turkish mediators and the High Representative for Gaza, Nikolay Mladenov. Egypt's State Information Service said the sides discussed measures needed to accelerate the transition to the second stage of the Trump plan.
Regional Backing and Next Steps
Egypt, Qatar and Turkey confirmed support for US efforts to establish stability in Gaza. They warned against any attempts to undermine the results achieved under the Sharm el-Sheikh agreements. Kushner also met Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi during the visit.
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US adviser Kushner arrives in Israel after Hamas disarmament talks in Egypt
