Jared Kushner reportedly trying to cut US aid to Palestinians before peace plan
President's son-in-law and special adviser on the Middle East is attempting to withhold up to $200m
Reports have emerged from the United States that Donald Trump’s son-in-law is trying to cut American aid to the Palestinians still further, ahead of an expected peace plan he is due to unveil.
Jared Kushner, who advises the president on the Middle East, is reported to have gained agreement from US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to withhold up to $200 million in relief aid to Gaza and the West Bank.
News of Kushner’s funding crush was reported through Foreign Policy late last week, which cited three diplomatic sources close to the White House administration.
The US Congress had already appropriated $230 million for private relief groups in Gaza, the West Bank and East Jerusalem, but Kushner and Pompeo are understood to be asking politicians to withhold most of the money.
If the US withholds the money it will affect dozens of humanitarian programmes run by non-governmental organisations and charities, and would shred the services offered through the US Agency for International Development.
Earlier this year Trump cut US funding for the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) by more than half, resulting in hundreds of staff members being laid off. UNRWA provides essential food and services to five million Palestinian refugees across the Middle East.
A National Security Council spokesman said: “No decision has been made.”
Keep community journalism free.
Jewish News is free for everyone. No paywall. No barriers. Just trusted journalism for anyone who wants to stay connected to Jewish life in Britain.
If you value that, please support us.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help keep our journalism free and accessible to all.
Every day, we report on the issues that matter to our community. We celebrate achievements, support charities, challenge antisemitism and ensure Jewish voices are heard more widely.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help us continue to:
- Report on the stories shaping Jewish life in the UK and beyond
- Bring our community together through shared stories, events and campaigns
- Celebrate the people, culture and moments that define our community
- Support organisations doing vital work across Jewish Britain
You can make a one-off donation or become a regular supporter. Every contribution helps keep our journalism free, independent and accessible to all.
If everyone who values Jewish News gave a small amount, it would make a real difference to our future.
