Kushner, Witkoff to meet with Netanyahu for talks on Gaza, Iran
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- US envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, along with CENTCOM chief Brad Cooper, meet Netanyahu to discuss Gaza peace plan and Iran tensions.
United States Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff and US President Donald Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner arrived in 'Israel' on Saturday to meet with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, according to Reuters.
The visit comes as part of ongoing efforts to implement phase two of Trump’s Gaza peace plan, including the disarmament of Hamas and the return of Ran Gvili’s remains, the last captive yet to be returned from Gaza.
Witkoff and Kushner had previously been in the United Arab Emirates on Friday for discussions involving US, Ukrainian, and Russian officials on the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
CENTCOM chief discusses Iran and regional security
Also arriving in 'Israel' on Saturday was General Brad Cooper, head of the US Central Command (CENTCOM), according to Army Radio reports. Cooper is scheduled to meet with senior 'Israeli' officials to discuss potential US involvement in Iranian anti-regime protests and the Iranian government’s crackdown on demonstrators.
Cooper’s visit is brief, part of a return trip to the US, and follows his recent travels in the Middle East addressing developments in Syria, including the Syrian army’s takeover of Kurdish areas, the release of Daesh detainees, and their transfer to Iraq.
The visit coincides with a US military buildup in the region, including the deployment of the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln, warships, destroyers, and fighter jets. President Trump noted on Thursday that the US has “a massive armada” heading to the Middle East while monitoring Iran closely.
Meetings amid escalating tensions
Spokesperson Shosh Bedrosian of Netanyahu’s office confirmed the meeting but did not provide a specific time or detailed agenda.
Typically, official meetings occur after the Jewish sabbath ends on Saturday evening.
The US embassy in Jerusalem declined immediate comment, while 'Israeli' media first reported the visit and upcoming discussions.
