Trump says son-in-law Kushner promoted to ‘peace envoy’
The Hill
by Laura KellyFebruary 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
President Trump announced during the inaugural Board of Peace meeting that he plans to appoint his son-in-law Jared Kushner as a special envoy for peace. This move comes as Kushner returns to an unofficial role in Trump’s second term, following his involvement in brokering the October ceasefire between Israel and Hamas and helping draft a peace plan for Gaza's reconstruction and governance. The decision highlights Kushner's growing influence in U.S. foreign policy, particularly in the Middle East.
Kushner, who has long been a key figure in Trump’s inner circle, married Trump’s daughter Ivanka in 2018. Despite his lack of formal diplomatic experience, he has played a significant role in shaping Trump’s policies, especially on issues related to Israel and the Middle East. His appointment as peace envoy is seen as an extension of his previous efforts to mediate between Israel and Hamas, which led to the brief ceasefire agreement last year.
This move has sparked both praise and criticism. Supporters argue that Kushner’s involvement could bring stability to the region, given his access to Trump and his ability to navigate complex political landscapes. Critics, however, question the wisdom of appointing someone with no formal diplomatic background to such a high-profile role, especially at a time when tensions in the Middle East remain volatile.
The significance of this appointment lies in its potential to shape U.S. foreign policy in the region. By elevating Kushner to the position of peace envoy, Trump is signaling his commitment to advancing a pro-Israel agenda and possibly redefining the U.S. approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This could have far-reaching implications for the region’s stability
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/19/2026