Diplomacy and Business Meet: CNN Investigation into Jared Kushner

A CNN investigation reveals that Jared Kushner's investment firm, Affinity Partners, holds a significant stake in the insurance company Phoenix, which has invested hundreds of millions of dollars in Elbit Systems and eight other defense companies supplying equipment to the IDF. These investments occurred alongside Kushner's diplomatic involvement in negotiations on Gaza and the planning of the rehabilitation program for the Strip. His lawyer and the White House reject claims of a conflict of interest.

A CNN investigation uncovers links between Jared Kushner's private business interests and his senior diplomatic role in the Trump administration. According to the investigation, Kushner's investment firm, Affinity Partners, holds a significant stake in the insurance company Phoenix. Phoenix has invested hundreds of millions of dollars in Elbit Systems, Israel's largest weapons manufacturer, which has seen a surge in demand due to the fighting. Additionally, the group holds shares in at least eight other companies supplying equipment to the IDF, including Next Vision, Reshef Technologies, Ashot Ashkelon, and Israel Shipyards. All nine companies have seen a notable increase in their share value over the past year. Last July, Affinity realized a quarter of its holdings in Phoenix for over $340 million, a fivefold return on the initial investment. The investments occurred alongside Kushner becoming a leading voice of the administration in the Middle East since spring 2025, helping to architect the ceasefire, and presenting a master plan for the rehabilitation of the Gaza Strip. Kushner's lawyer dismissed the claims, stating that Kushner never participated in or directed Phoenix's investment decisions. A White House spokesperson called the claims a 'tired narrative'. Democratic figures are threatening to open investigations.