JD Vance Defends Gaza Ceasefire, Threatens Hamas Again/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ U.S. Vice President JD Vance defended the Gaza ceasefire during his Israel visit, calling it “durable” but warned Hamas would face destruction if it violates terms. He criticized Western media for alleged bias and reaffirmed Trump’s aggressive stance. Talks focused on aid, regional normalization, and ceasefire enforcement without foreign troops.
Gaza Ceasefire Talks Quick Looks
- JD Vance in Israel to support fragile Gaza ceasefire
- Vance: Truce is “durable,” but Hamas risks destruction
- Trump echoes threat to “obliterate” Hamas if provoked
- Vance accuses Western media of bias, undermining peace
- US rules out imposing foreign troops in ceasefire enforcement
- Jared Kushner highlights strong UN-Israel aid cooperation
- Steve Witkoff says truce may model future peace efforts
- Hostage families met with U.S. and Israeli officials
- World Food Program aid trucks still fall short of pre-war volume
Deep Look
JD Vance Calls Gaza Ceasefire ‘Durable’ Amid Trump Threats, Media Criticism
U.S. Vice President JD Vance, currently on a diplomatic visit to Israel, reaffirmed the Biden-Trump administration’s support for the recent Gaza ceasefire, calling it “durable” despite widespread concerns about its fragility. Speaking at a press conference alongside White House envoy Steve Witkoff and senior advisor Jared Kushner, Vance underscored a clear warning to Hamas: disarm or face obliteration.
The trip marks a critical moment for U.S. engagement in the Middle East, as fighting in Gaza has temporarily halted under a tense agreement. However, the truce remains on edge as violations, aid shortfalls, and rising casualties continue to challenge stability.
A Ceasefire at a Crossroads
At the podium in Tel Aviv, Vance stated his confidence in the current peace plan while acknowledging its unpredictability.
“This is difficult. This is going to take time,” he said. “We don’t yet have the international security force set up.” Despite lacking formal enforcement mechanisms, Vance insisted that “very bad things” will follow if Hamas fails to disarm — reiterating Donald Trump’s now-viral declaration to “obliterate” the group should it breach the ceasefire.
He declined to set a specific timeline for disarmament, stating, “I don’t think it’s actually advisable to say this has to be done in a week.”
Western Media and Perception Wars
During the press briefing, Vance delivered pointed remarks at the American and European press, accusing them of carrying a “weird attitude” and an “almost a desire to root for failure.” This rhetoric aligns with growing dissatisfaction among conservative U.S. leaders over how Western outlets have reported on Israeli military actions during the ceasefire, particularly civilian casualties in Gaza.
Vance defended Israel’s military response, calling Hamas a “terrorist organization” and describing the Israeli army as engaged in “self-defense.”
No U.S. Pressure on Israel Over Troop Deployment
When asked about possible foreign intervention to enforce the ceasefire, Vance was clear:
“Everybody has a role to play here, but the U.S. will not force anything on Israel.” He also stated that his visit had been long planned and not a reaction to recent developments, emphasizing the administration’s long-term investment in the region’s stability.
Despite uncertainty, he struck an optimistic tone. “Right now, I feel very optimistic… even if I can’t say 100% whether it is going to work.”
Kushner and Witkoff Weigh In
Jared Kushner, former White House senior advisor and Trump’s son-in-law, also addressed reporters, echoing Vance’s caution against overreacting to alleged ceasefire violations.
Kushner spoke of “surprisingly strong communication” between the United Nations and Israeli authorities regarding humanitarian aid and described regional interest in joining the peace initiative.
“There is a belief that a better outcome for Gaza is possible,” Kushner said. “We’re seeing countries express interest in becoming part of the de-escalation process.”
Steve Witkoff, currently the U.S. special envoy to the Middle East and key architect of the ceasefire deal, stated that the framework could serve as a model for peace efforts in other global conflicts.
“We are learning so much here,” he said after meeting with nine released hostages earlier that day. “There was a lot of tears in the room, but I didn’t see victims — I saw strong people.”
Trump’s Voice Still Looms Large
Though not physically present, Donald Trump’s stance was unmistakably central to the day’s narrative. On Truth Social, the former president issued a renewed threat against Hamas, saying the group would face a “brutal end” if it “continues to act badly.”
JD Vance echoed that sentiment, noting Trump’s desire for positive relations with Iran while drawing a red line on nuclear weapons.
“Donald Trump wants Iran to be prosperous,” Vance said, “but they cannot have a nuclear weapon.”
Concluding his remarks, Vance invoked a religious tone. “Jesus Christ was called the Prince of Peace. With prayers, God’s providence, and a great team, I think we’re going to get it done.”
Humanitarian Aid, But Still Falling Short
Meanwhile, the World Food Program (WFP) reported that over 530 aid trucks had entered Gaza over the past 10 days — a positive sign, but still far short of the 500-600 trucks that arrived daily before the war. The WFP has reinstated 26 distribution points and aims to return to 145 soon.
Local officials and residents report inflation in Gaza has soared since Israeli airstrikes resumed following Hamas attacks that left two Israeli soldiers dead. Amid economic turmoil and pressure from civilians, Hamas-led security forces have cracked down on merchants accused of price gouging.
The WFP emphasized the urgency of scaling aid efforts to stabilize the region, which remains volatile despite temporary calm.
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