Jared Kushner’s Influence Could Shape Trump’s Middle East Agenda Despite Complications, Sources Say

Jared Kushner’s Influence Could Shape Trump’s Middle East Agenda Despite Complications, Sources Say

CNN reports that Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of President-elect Donald Trump, is poised to play a critical advisory role in shaping Trump’s Middle East policies, even though he is unlikely to assume a formal position in the new administration.

According to CNN, Kushner’s deep relationships with regional leaders, cultivated during Trump’s first term, make him a unique asset as Trump seeks to navigate the complex dynamics of the Middle East.

Kushner’s Unique Role and Relationships

CNN highlights that while Trump has named a new Middle East team—including former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee as ambassador to Israel and real estate developer Steve Witkoff as a special envoy—Kushner’s established trust with key players, such as Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) and Israeli leaders, stands out. A regional diplomat told CNN that Kushner’s earned trust is invaluable, describing his relationships as unparalleled.

Financial Ties Add Complexity

Kushner’s financial ties to the region, including a $2 billion investment from Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund into his firm Affinity Partners, raise questions about potential conflicts of interest. Critics expressed concerns to CNN about the possibility of Trump prioritizing his family’s financial interests over U.S. national interests. However, Kushner’s defenders argue that his relationships could drive progress, particularly in advancing normalization efforts between Israel and Arab states, a continuation of the Abraham Accords achieved during Trump’s first term.

The Challenges Ahead

CNN reports that ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon add further challenges to any diplomatic efforts. Kushner’s recent comments on Gaza, which appeared detached and materialistic to some, sparked outrage in the Arab world. Analysts like Ghaith Al-Omari told CNN that Kushner must tread carefully in his language and approach to avoid inflaming regional tensions.

Trump’s Priorities and Kushner’s Role

According to CNN, Trump has already prioritized U.S.-Saudi relations, as evidenced by his recent call with MBS, following a conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Kushner, who has remained close to Netanyahu since childhood, recently met with Israeli officials, indicating his continued involvement.

Navigating Internal Dynamics

While new appointees like Huckabee and Witkoff bring their own regional connections, their ability to collaborate with Kushner will be pivotal, CNN explains. Witkoff, for instance, recently consulted Kushner on the Middle East portfolio before his formal announcement as special envoy.

Conclusion

CNN concludes that whether through formal channels or discreet engagements, Kushner’s influence on Trump’s Middle East strategy is expected to remain significant. A former Trump official told CNN that Kushner’s established communication lines, especially with figures like MBS, could prove essential in advancing U.S. objectives in the region  (TJV NEWS)