Netanyahu, Kushner Meet as Gaza Ceasefire’s First Phase Concludes
JERUSALEM - Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with former White House senior advisor Jared Kushner on Monday as the initial phase of a Gaza ceasefire agreement neared its conclusion, according to statements from both sides. The meeting occurred amid ongoing negotiations to extend the truce adn secure further release of hostages held by Hamas.
The discussion focused on regional dynamics and potential pathways toward a lasting resolution to the conflict, with Kushner reportedly offering insights based on his previous diplomatic efforts in the Middle East. Netanyahu has faced mounting domestic pressure regarding the handling of the conflict following reports that intelligence indicating an impending Hamas attack on October 7th was not adequately analyzed, potentially delaying a crucial response. The Israeli military stated, “On the night of Oct. 7, direct intelligence had accumulated which, had it been professionally analyzed, could and should have led to an alert and a significant operational response.” Netanyahu has resisted calls for an official inquiry into governmental decision-making, stating such an investigation should wait until the war ends, a position critics denounce as a stonewalling tactic.
The ceasefire, brokered by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, has facilitated the release of dozens of hostages held in Gaza in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. As of Monday, the agreement’s first phase-scheduled to end Tuesday-had resulted in the release of 50 hostages and 150 Palestinian prisoners. Negotiations are underway to extend the truce, with mediators hoping to secure the release of additional hostages, including women, children, and those in need of medical attention.
Meanwhile, tensions remain high in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. Residents of the village of umm al-Khair, featured in the Oscar-winning documentary “no Other Land,” are bracing for potential demolition of 14 structures, including a community center, greenhouse, and homes. Israel claims the structures were built illegally, while residents argue obtaining building permits in the West Bank is virtually impractical. The village, founded in the 1950s by Bedouin people displaced during the 1948 war, has experienced escalating settler violence since the 1980s following the establishment of the nearby Carmel settlement.
