US Vice President J.D. Vance Visits Israel

US Vice President J.D. Vance, who arrived in Israel on Tuesday, expressed confidence that Hamas is willing to engage in a ceasefire with Israel in the Gaza Strip. However, he mentioned that if Hamas fails to disarm, it would “disappear.”

Vance, seen as a significant figure among isolationists in the Republican Party, has long maintained that the United States should uphold a strong alliance with Israel, even while promoting a non-interventionist foreign policy.

Accompanied by his second wife, Usha Vance, he is in Israel for a three-day visit that includes official discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Israeli President Isaac Herzog on Wednesday.

During a press conference, he stood alongside U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, Donald Trump’s son-in-law, who has played a crucial role in recent negotiations.

The Times of Israel reported that Vance acknowledged the challenges in rescuing the remaining 15 hostages believed to be in Gaza, describing it as “difficult” and “not something that will happen overnight.”

Vance emphasized, “Our warning to Hamas is very simple and clear,” referring to the terms laid out by the US president. “It is supported not only by Israel but by all our Gulf Arab friends.”

He added, “We are discussing how to establish security and humanitarian mechanisms for proper implementation. Right now, I am confident that we can achieve lasting peace. If Hamas does not cooperate, it will be destroyed,” he stated.

Similar sentiments have been echoed by President Trump in recent days, stressing the importance of maintaining the ceasefire, despite Hamas’ actions that have resulted in the deaths of two Israeli soldiers and potential future repercussions.

Upon Vance’s arrival, there were indications that Hamas was preparing to release two more deceased hostages, increasing the total to 17 out of the original 28. This came amidst the firing of Israel’s national security adviser, Tsashi Hanegbi, who had opposed the invasion of Gaza City. Many speculate that Hamas may finally be yielding to military pressure, balancing concerns for hostages and Israel’s image on the global stage. Hanegbi had been advocating for an agreement with Hamas to avert an attack on its stronghold in Gaza.