Jared Kushner Returns to Trump’s Inner Circle as Key Figures Shape the Next Administration

Jared Kushner Returns to Trump’s Inner Circle as Key Figures Shape the Next Administration

Edited by: Fern Sidman

New insights into the shaping of Donald Trump’s prospective administration are emerging, with sources revealing that Jared Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law and a prominent advisor in the former administration, has rejoined the inner circle to guide preparations for a potential second term. According to a report on Sunday on the Israel HaYom web site, Kushner is stepping back into the political spotlight after a long period of relative quiet, motivated by a strong critique of the current administration’s stance on Israel and Middle East policy.

Israel HaYom reported that Kushner played an instrumental role in Trump’s previous administration, leading numerous key initiatives and contributing to the administration’s signature achievements, particularly in foreign policy. During his initial term, Kushner’s work was particularly impactful in the Middle East, where he was credited with fostering diplomatic ties between Israel and several Arab states, marking a major shift in regional dynamics through the Abraham Accords. His return now signals Trump’s continued focus on Middle Eastern stability and U.S.-Israel relations, which are likely to remain central pillars in his administration’s foreign policy.

After the 2020 election, Kushner and his wife Ivanka Trump retreated from public life, focusing on their family and maintaining a low profile, especially to provide a more private life for their children. However, a source cited by Israel HaYom revealed that Kushner’s recent return was prompted by growing concerns over the Biden administration’s policies toward Israel, which he views as jeopardizing regional stability. His recent public statements on the matter marked the end of his political hiatus, indicating a renewed commitment to contributing his experience to a potential Trump administration.

Meanwhile, speculations about Trump’s cabinet choices are intensifying, with discussions centering around the role of Secretary of State. According to the report at Israel HaYom, insiders in the Republican Party suggest that Trump’s decision to pass over former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has led to an increased likelihood of Florida Senator Marco Rubio taking the role. Known for his staunch support of Israel, Rubio has been a close ally of Trump and, according to two sources familiar with the matter, has emerged as a leading candidate for the position.

Rubio’s foreign policy stance aligns closely with Trump’s, particularly on Middle East issues. The Israel HaYom report highlighted Rubio’s consistent advocacy for a stronger U.S.-Israel partnership and his alignment with Trump on critical foreign policy objectives, positioning him as a natural fit for the Secretary of State role. His presence at Trump’s victory event in West Palm Beach on Tuesday night further fueled speculation, as his relationship with Trump has reportedly grown closer in recent months.

The potential appointment of Rubio to Secretary of State reflects Trump’s likely focus on reaffirming the U.S.’s commitments in the Middle East, with Israel as a central ally. Rubio’s close working relationship with Kushner during Trump’s first term could serve to reinforce a cohesive foreign policy approach within the administration, particularly on issues relating to Iran, the Abraham Accords, and countering anti-Israel rhetoric on the global stage.

Kushner’s return to Trump’s advisory team marks a significant shift in the preparatory phase for this administration, as his experience and influence over Middle East policy initiatives were hallmarks of Trump’s first term. The Israel HaYom report noted that his involvement illustrates Trump’s intention to build upon the groundwork laid during his previous administration, particularly with respect to Israel and broader Middle Eastern diplomacy. With Rubio’s potential ascension to Secretary of State and Kushner’s seasoned guidance, Trump appears to be assembling a team poised to prioritize U.S.-Israel relations, while also potentially advancing additional peace initiatives within the region.