Kushner Criticizes Doha Strike, Confirms US Leveraged Crisis for Gaza Deal
Jared Kushner criticized Israel's strike in Doha, admitting the US leveraged the resulting diplomatic crisis to pressure Jerusalem into a Gaza arrangement.
Jared Kushner, son-in-law and special adviser to US President Donald Trump, issued sharp criticism regarding the Israeli strike in Doha, Qatar, that took place roughly a year ago. Speaking via video link at a conference in Kyiv, Kushner described the military action as a terrible and unsuccessful move that isolated Israel internationally. However, he confirmed that the White House leveraged the resulting diplomatic crisis to pressure the Israeli government into accepting a deal.
According to Kushner, although Israeli leadership was initially uncomfortable with Washington's demands, the administration utilized the dynamic to push for an agreement that Israel is now satisfied with. He added that the outcome ultimately benefited both Israel and the residents of Gaza, pointing to a new governing structure expected to take control of the strip following demilitarization progress. Kushner emphasized that behind-the-scenes preparation was crucial in seizing the unexpected political window created by the crisis.
"Israel carried out the strike in Doha, and it was a terrible thing. Obviously, it was also a military operation that did not succeed," said Kushner.
Kushner's remarks offer a rare public window into the Trump administration's calculus regarding the Gaza arrangement, illustrating how a perceived strategic failure was converted into diplomatic leverage. While the characterization of the strike as a failed and terrible action departs from standard diplomatic messaging, Kushner maintained that the long-term strategic results justified the intense pressure exerted on Jerusalem.
