Kushner: 'Failure not an option' in Gaza reconstruction, outlines 3-year vision

2026-02-20 - 05:02

Jared Kushner, a key architect of US peace efforts and President Donald Trump's son-in-law, delivered an unequivocal message at the inaugural Board of Peace meeting Thursday: "Failure is not an option" in Gaza's reconstruction. Describing the initiative as a partnership with Gazans and Israelis to create "an environment that can be peaceful, that could be functional," Kushner emphasized that Muslims, Jews, Palestinians, Israelis, and people from across the world have united around "a common goal, which is peace and togetherness." Three-Year Reconstruction Vision A promotional video produced by Kushner outlined comprehensive reconstruction efforts, describing establishment of safe zones offering shelter, food, healthcare, and education for Palestinian families. Infrastructure work coordinated with the US and World Bank would employ hundreds of thousands in rebuilding and commercial activities while restoring transport, water, and energy systems. The plan sets a three-year target for full reconstruction of Rafah, reduced unemployment, and Gaza's connection to global markets through a corridor linking Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, extending to India and Europe. Long-Term Integration The video projected that within a decade, Gaza will become a self-governing territory fully integrated into the region, featuring thriving industry and housing. Kushner noted participants represent "a very self-selecting group of countries that really believe that the future can be different," acting "for their children and for their grandchildren." While acknowledging past cannot be changed, he expressed optimism that "we can potentially change the future if we focus and do this in the right way," framing reconstruction as an unprecedented opportunity for regional transformation.