U.S. Vice President JD Vance has sharply criticized Israel’s recent parliamentary vote regarding the annexation of the West Bank, labeling it an “insult.” His remarks coincided with the conclusion of his visit to Israel and followed a statement from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who announced his upcoming travels to the region.
Vance’s comments underscore the Trump administration’s commitment to maintaining the momentum of a U.S.-brokered ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. As he departed from Tel Aviv’s international airport on Thursday, he described the Knesset vote as a potential political stunt that reflects poorly on Israeli leadership. “If the Knesset vote was a political stunt, then it is a very stupid political stunt,” Vance stated, adding that he personally found the vote offensive. He reaffirmed the administration’s position against the West Bank’s annexation by Israel.
In a related development earlier this week, Vance introduced a new civilian military coordination center in southern Israel, where approximately 200 U.S. troops are collaborating with the Israeli military and international delegations to facilitate the stabilization and reconstruction of Gaza. Rubio has also indicated his intent to visit this center, where he will appoint a Foreign Service officer to work closely with Vice Adm. Brad Cooper, the top U.S. military commander in the Middle East.
The U.S. administration is actively seeking support from Gulf Arab nations to establish an international stabilization force that would assist in Gaza and aid in training non-Hamas Palestinian police forces. Rubio highlighted the necessity of equipping these forces to ensure effective governance in the region.
As Vance’s visit progressed, he took time to explore significant cultural sites, including the Church of the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem, before meeting with key military and government officials. Addressing concerns about U.S. influence over Israeli policies, Vance emphasized that the United States seeks a partnership rather than a subordinate relationship with Israel.
In the backdrop of these diplomatic efforts, conditions in Gaza remain dire. The World Health Organization reported the evacuation of 41 critical patients since the ceasefire commenced on October 10, with a significant backlog of patients still awaiting medical care. The humanitarian situation is compounded by severe damage to health facilities, making access to care virtually impossible for many residents.
Additionally, Israel’s Supreme Court held a hearing regarding the restriction on journalists’ access to Gaza. The court has granted the Israeli government 30 days to reconsider its position on media access following persistent calls from the Foreign Press Association (FPA). The lack of access has drawn widespread criticism, with the FPA calling the government’s stance unacceptable.
As international attention focuses on this tense situation, the hope remains that diplomatic efforts will yield positive outcomes for both peace in the region and improved humanitarian conditions for those affected by ongoing conflict.