In a recent extended interview aired on El-Balad, Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff discussed their roles in facilitating peace negotiations amid ongoing tensions in Gaza. The interview was a follow-up to a segment that aired on October 19, 2025, on CBS’s 60 Minutes.
Key Insights from the Interview
Kushner and Witkoff emphasized the importance of building trust in international negotiations. They noted that their previous experiences during President Trump’s first term in office played a crucial role in shaping their diplomatic approach. According to Kushner, the shift towards pragmatic realism over conventional diplomatic protocols yielded significant results.
Challenges in Aid Delivery to Gaza
- Miscommunication: Kushner highlighted ongoing challenges in delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza, citing multiple parties involved, including the United Nations and Turkish teams, as sources of confusion.
- Complex Negotiations: The complexities in negotiations were underscored by the need for “deconfliction” – a term used by Kushner to describe the process of clarifying misunderstandings among stakeholders.
Confidence in Success
Kushner expressed unwavering optimism regarding the peace deal, claiming a “100%” chance of success. He framed their efforts as vital, stating, “we can’t afford to fail.” Witkoff echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that saving lives was their ultimate goal.
Risk-Taking in Diplomacy
Witkoff acknowledged that their diplomatic style involved calculated risks, facilitated by President Trump’s delegation of authority. The freedom to negotiate without constant oversight enabled them to adapt swiftly to emerging circumstances.
Hostage Negotiations
The discussion also touched upon critical moments in negotiations, notably the bombing of a Hamas compound in Doha. Kushner and Witkoff described feeling betrayed when this event disrupted ongoing peace talks. However, they managed to re-engage critical mediators, primarily Qatar, which eventually led to the release of hostages.
Military and Humanitarian Considerations
- Humanitarian Aid: They reiterated the necessity of creating a transparent governance system for Gaza to ensure that aid reaches those in need.
- Disarmament of Hamas: Discussions included plans for Hamas to disarm, linked to a stabilization force, although neither Kushner nor Witkoff indicated a definitive timeline for execution.
Infrastructure and Reconstruction
The projected cost for rebuilding Gaza is estimated at $50 billion, with efforts underway to coordinate resources from various Middle Eastern countries. Kushner detailed ongoing consultations with contractors to facilitate a structured, transparent rebuilding process.
Future Prospects
Despite the complexities, Kushner and Witkoff remain committed to navigating the intricate dynamics of Middle East diplomacy. They are prioritizing the establishment of a functioning local governance structure while mitigating the influence of Hamas.
Kushner concluded by underscoring the importance of fostering a sustainable peace that allows both Israelis and Palestinians to thrive in a stable environment, emphasizing the need for continued dialogue and commitment to future engagements.
