Kushner: Gaza reconstruction blocked until Hamas gives up weapons

Jared Kushner, former senior White House adviser and

Jared Kushner, former senior White House adviser and son-in-law to President Donald Trump, declared that the United States will not support rebuilding the Gaza Strip unless the militant group Hamas first lays down its arms. His remarks came amid ongoing Israeli airstrikes that have devastated large parts of the enclave.

Speaking to reporters, Kushner emphasized that Washington would not impose limitations on Israel's military actions, stating, "We will not restrict Israel's right to defend itself." He framed the condition for reconstruction as a prerequisite for any future stability in the region, insisting that Hamas's disarmament is non-negotiable before international aid or investment flows into Gaza.

The statement underscores the administration's firm stance as the humanitarian crisis deepens. Local health officials report thousands of casualties, and critical infrastructure—including hospitals, schools, and water systems—lies in ruins. Aid agencies warn that without immediate assistance and a clear political path forward, the territory faces a prolonged catastrophe.

Kushner's comments align with broader U.S. policy under

Kushner's comments align with broader U.S. policy under the current administration, which has consistently backed Israel's operations while urging Arab nations to play a larger role in post-conflict governance. However, his stark linkage of reconstruction to disarmament drew sharp criticism from Palestinian representatives, who called the approach "collective punishment" and a violation of international law.

As the strikes continue, diplomatic efforts remain stalled. U.N. officials have renewed calls for a ceasefire, but Kushner signaled no shift in Washington's position, reiterating that security guarantees for Israel come first. The path to rebuilding Gaza, he suggested, hinges entirely on Hamas's willingness to surrender its military capability—a demand the group has so far rejected outright.