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Trump Suggests Jared Kushner 'In Charge' of Israel: What Does It Mean?

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  Published in Politics and Government on Tuesday, December 30th 2025 at 17:33 GMT by People

Trump Hands the Reins (Sort Of) to Jared: A Shift in US-Israel Relations?

Former President Donald Trump recently made headlines with a surprising statement suggesting his son-in-law, Jared Kushner, is now effectively “in charge” of Israel. The comments, delivered during a recent rally in Detroit, have sparked considerable discussion about the evolving dynamics between the United States and Israel, particularly given the current Israeli government’s policies and the ongoing conflict in Gaza. While Trump's phrasing was arguably hyperbolic, it highlights a complex reality: Kushner remains a significant figure influencing US-Israel relations, even outside of formal governmental power.

The core of Trump’s statement, as reported by People Magazine, was that “Jared is really in charge now.” He elaborated, seemingly referring to the current Israeli government led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and its policies regarding Gaza. Trump's remark wasn't presented as a formal declaration or endorsement of Kushner holding an official position; rather, it appeared to be a commentary on the perceived influence he still wields. The context was Trump discussing his own past involvement in brokering the Abraham Accords, landmark normalization agreements between Israel and several Arab nations. He implied that while he initiated those deals, Kushner has taken over the reins of their implementation and related strategies.

The Legacy of the Abraham Accords & Kushner's Role

To understand the significance of Trump’s statement, it's crucial to revisit the history of the Abraham Accords. These agreements – signed in 2020 between Israel, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Sudan, and Morocco – were a major foreign policy achievement for the Trump administration. Jared Kushner played a central role in their negotiation and implementation, serving as Senior Advisor to the President and leading the White House’s Middle East peace efforts. He spearheaded a team that worked tirelessly behind the scenes, often facing criticism for its approach which many considered to bypass traditional diplomatic channels and prioritize economic incentives over addressing core Palestinian grievances (as detailed by The New York Times).

Kushner's strategy involved cultivating relationships with key figures in the region, focusing on shared interests like countering Iran’s influence and fostering economic cooperation. He also championed a vision of regional integration that prioritized these factors over resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict – a departure from previous US policy which had consistently emphasized a two-state solution. The Washington Post reported extensively on Kushner's close relationship with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, another key player in shaping regional dynamics.

Current Context: Netanyahu, Gaza, and Shifting Alliances

Trump’s comments come at a particularly sensitive time. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government is facing unprecedented challenges, including widespread protests over his proposed judicial reforms and intense international scrutiny regarding Israel's military actions in Gaza. The ongoing conflict has strained relationships with some of Israel’s traditional allies, while simultaneously highlighting the importance of maintaining strong ties with the United States.

Netanyahu’s policies have been increasingly aligned with Kushner’s vision for the region – prioritizing economic integration and downplaying the Palestinian issue. This alignment likely contributes to Trump's perception that Kushner is "in charge," as Netanyahu appears receptive to strategies mirroring those previously championed by Kushner during the Trump administration. The current Israeli government has also shown a willingness to pursue policies that might have been considered too controversial in the past, further solidifying the sense of a shift in direction.

Reactions and Interpretations

Trump’s statement has elicited varied reactions. Some view it as a boastful remark underscoring Kushner's continued influence. Others interpret it as a subtle critique of Netanyahu’s leadership or an attempt to reassert Trump’s own legacy in the Middle East. Political analysts suggest that the comment could be intended to signal a potential shift in policy should Trump return to office, indicating a renewed emphasis on Kushner’s approach to regional diplomacy.

The Jewish Telegraphic Agency noted the unusual nature of Trump's statement and its potential implications for future US-Israel relations. While Kushner has always been a significant figure, Trump’s explicit acknowledgment of his influence raises questions about the extent to which he might shape policy under a second Trump administration.

The Reality: Influence vs. Formal Power

It is important to clarify that Jared Kushner does not hold any official position within the US government or the Israeli government. However, his deep connections within both political spheres, coupled with his track record of successfully negotiating complex deals, undoubtedly grant him considerable influence. His private equity firm, Affinity Partners, has also been actively investing in Israel and the region, further solidifying his presence and potential impact on economic development.

Trump’s statement, while perhaps hyperbolic, serves as a reminder that even outside formal power structures, individuals can wield significant influence on international affairs. The question now is whether Kushner's vision for the Middle East – one prioritizing regional integration over resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict – will continue to shape US policy and impact the region’s future.

This article aims to provide a comprehensive summary of the People Magazine piece, incorporating relevant context and analysis from linked sources.