Jared Kushner faces conflict of interest concerns over Israeli military investments

Jared Kushner, a key Middle East negotiator for President Donald Trump, faces scrutiny over potential conflicts of interest involving his private equity firm, Affinity Partners. Reports indicate that Affinity holds a major stake in Phoenix Financial, a Tel Aviv-based firm that invests heavily in companies supplying equipment to the Israeli military.

Analysis of Phoenix Financial’s holdings reveals investments exceeding $450 million across nine companies providing weapons or military equipment. Notable holdings include $265 million in Elbit Systems, Israel’s largest weapons manufacturer, as well as significant stakes in Next Vision, Bet Shemesh Engines, and Reshef Technologies. Other identified investments include Boeing and Caterpillar.

While Kushner acts as a diplomatic advisor and negotiator on issues including the Gaza conflict, the stock values of these defense-related companies increased last year, with several noting that the war in Gaza drove business demand. Although no direct link has been established between Kushner’s diplomatic actions and his investment returns, the dual role of high-level political advisory and private equity ownership has raised concerns regarding impartiality.