JD Vance Visits Israel, Meets Netanyahu, Herzog, and Families of Hostages

On his official visit to Israel, US Vice President JD Vance met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, President Isaac Herzog, and families of fallen IDF soldiers, reaffirming America’s support for Israel’s right to self-defense while advancing efforts to stabilize Gaza post-conflict.

Vance made clear that the United States is not seeking to dictate Israeli policy. “Israel is not an American protectorate,” Netanyahu stated firmly during their meeting. “We will have the final say regarding our security.” Vance echoed this sentiment, saying the Trump administration was focused on enabling, not controlling, Israeli decisions.

The discussions centered on holding the ceasefire with Hamas and moving forward with a long-term vision for Gaza. “We have a very tough task ahead of us,” Vance acknowledged. “We must disarm Hamas but rebuild Gaza to make life better for its people while ensuring it’s no longer a threat to our friends in Israel.”

Vance noted productive discussions not only with Israeli leaders but also with Arab governments offering to play constructive roles. “I feel very optimistic based on my conversations with both Israeli and Gulf Arab partners,” he said, “that it’s possible to make peace stick.”

In a poignant meeting with Yehoshua Shani, father of fallen IDF Captain Ori Shani and chairman of the Gvura Families of the Fallen Forum, Vance heard a direct plea: “Defeat Hamas and return the hostages.” Vance responded with resolve: “We are working on this with the Israeli government. I cannot guarantee that everyone will return, but we are committed to doing everything possible.”

At his meeting with President Herzog, Vance stressed the long view: “We're here to talk about peace… phase two, phase three of this agreement. It will be difficult, but the opportunity to create a better Middle East is real if we hold together.”

The visit underscores the Trump administration’s hands-on approach to supporting Israel, defeating Hamas, and rebuilding Gaza with regional cooperation. For Israelis, it affirms a clear message: America stands with Israel not just in words, but in action.

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