Vice President JD Vance recently addressed the diplomatic ties between the United States and Israel, noting tensions in the relationship. He highlighted that while there are shared interests, some differences also exist. Vance stated, “The Israelis and the United States, we have a lot of shared interests, but we also have some situations where our interests diverge.”
Vance emphasized that the primary aim of the United States in its dealings with Iran is to prevent the acquisition of nuclear weapons. His remarks followed intelligence reports suggesting concern over Israel’s surveillance activities targeting US negotiators in the peace talks with Iran.
“The United States’ main objective in Iran is to ensure that Iran does not have a nuclear weapon,” Vance added.
Amid recent strains in the relationship between President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Vice President Vance confirmed that military action against Iran remains a consideration if diplomatic measures fail. This comes as tensions rise over alleged Israeli surveillance of key US figures such as Elbridge A. Colby and negotiator Steve Witkoff.
Simultaneously, Trump has publicly expressed frustrations with Netanyahu’s stance, reportedly labeling him “f—ing crazy” in a conversation regarding Israel’s military actions in Lebanon.
The Pentagon has responded by categorizing Israel as a significant counterintelligence threat. Nevertheless, Vance affirmed that US policy towards Iran prioritizes national interests while recognizing Israel’s security concerns.
Vance mentioned progress in negotiations with Iran, noting, “We’ve created the space necessary where the president believes – and I think that he’s right – that we can get the long-term settlement to Iran’s nuclear deal.” He also acknowledged that Israel’s agreement with this approach remains uncertain.
The announcement comes after Iran and Israel had a rare military exchange postulating the US-brokered ceasefire, which paused hostilities in early April.
The vice president expressed optimism about the ongoing negotiations with Iran, referencing Iran’s willingness to present substantive proposals. “The Iranians don’t want this war to continue,” he shared during a Fox News segment.
When questioned about potential manipulation by Iran at the negotiating table, Vance responded, “Everybody’s always trying to play everybody. I don’t assume that anybody’s acting in good faith.”
Despite the complexities, Vance remains hopeful that a comprehensive Middle East peace agreement might be achieved. He emphasizes the importance of rigorous inspections to ensure Iranian compliance with any future nuclear agreements.
Vance emphasized the importance of verifying Iran’s commitments, stating, “We’re going to take the attitude of: ‘Accomplish the president’s mission, but verify over the long term that the Iranians are keeping their end of the bargain.'”
Finally, Vance highlighted the potential impact of a successful deal with Iran, noting its significance for the United States. “If we get to this deal, it’s gonna be a home run win for the American people,” he concluded.
Nora Moriarty is a Production Assistant at FOX News.