On Thursday, Jared Kushner unveiled an ambitious plan for the Gaza Strip, aiming to attract investment and tourism after years of conflict. This idea parallels his father-in-law, President Trump’s, vision of transforming the war-torn region into the “Liberia of the Middle East.”
Kushner, age 45, presented images of luxurious seaside high-rises and suburban communities designed for the area’s approximately 2 million residents—many of whom are currently displaced, living in tents or under debris following a two-year war that concluded in October.
During the founding session of a peace commission, which President Trump chairs, Kushner expressed optimism: “In cities across the Middle East, we’re building similar projects in just three years for populations of two to three million. So, if we make this work, it could really happen here.”
While speaking in Davos, Switzerland, where President Trump was attending the World Economic Forum, Kushner emphasized that Hamas—still holding power in Gaza’s most populous areas—must disarm to kickstart construction. He noted, “We cannot rebuild without it.”
“Without security, no one will invest,” he added.
The outlined plan includes gradually revitalizing impoverished sections, beginning with a major project to construct 100,000 homes in Rafah, aiming for completion within three years.
He described the future of Gaza as a prospective hub for industry and job creation.
“At first, we considered separating investment zones from Hamas-controlled areas, but eventually, we recognized that we should plan for significant success,” Kushner noted, mentioning his role—along with special envoy Steve Witkoff—in negotiating an end to the conflict.
Kushner, who played a key part in the Abraham Accords, acknowledged that ambitious plans might appear unrealistic at first but could become a reality. “Hamas has agreed to a demilitarization that we’ll enforce,” he stated. “When asked about a backup plan? We don’t have one. We’re committed to making this plan work, step by step.”
In a recent meeting, President Trump signed a document promoting the Peace Commission’s goals, suggesting an expansion into other global conflicts.
Kushner mentioned efforts are underway to schedule an investor conference in Washington to highlight opportunities within the Gaza Strip.
“We aim to utilize free market principles—much like what President Trump advocates for here in the U.S.—to provide the people of Gaza a chance for prosperity and a better life,” he remarked.
The initiative seeks to transform Gaza from an aid-dependent area into a thriving free-market city.
Last week, the White House announced the formation of an interim “technocratic” government for Gaza, set to be chaired by Dr. Ali Shas, a relatively unknown former Palestinian Authority official.
Kushner commented on the collaboration with Hamas regarding the disarmament phase, expressing hope for its success. “If Hamas doesn’t demilitarize, it will impede progress for the people of Gaza in achieving their goals. For the next 100 days, we’ll focus on ensuring this happens,” he concluded.
