JERUSALEM — In a recently released podcast with host Joe Rogan, U.S. Vice President JD Vance asserted that certain members of the Israeli government have been attempting to shape American public sentiment against a prospective U.S.-led agreement aimed at ending the conflict with Iran. This statement echoes earlier remarks by Vance, who is widely regarded as a possible future presidential candidate, underscoring an escalating public disagreement between the two nations.
Vance defended the newly brokered agreement that seeks to conclude the war with Iran, a deal that has drawn criticism from both U.S. and Israeli observers for allegedly failing to curb Iran’s missile program and for offering no clear pathway to dismantling its nuclear infrastructure, while simultaneously limiting Israel’s operations against Hezbollah militants in Lebanon.
“I have no doubt that there are individuals within the Israeli government who are actively trying to shift U.S. policy away from this agreement in order to sustain the military campaign,” Vance stated.
While acknowledging that he maintains “good relationships” with several Israeli officials, Vance emphasized that “there are people within their system whom we know beyond a shadow of a doubt are manipulating and attempting to alter American public opinion to keep the conflict ongoing indefinitely.”
He further remarked that such influence operations are “just the nature of being a political leader in 2026,” adding that “what does bother me is when those operations actually affect American political judgment.”
In June, Vance sparked controversy by asserting that former President Donald Trump remains Israel’s sole reliable ally, a comment that referenced the substantial U.S. defense assistance the country receives. Israeli officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, have characterized the agreement’s terms as detrimental to Israel’s security, citing unaddressed concerns regarding Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile capabilities — concerns shared across Israel’s leadership.
When questioned about whether U.S. involvement in the most recent Iran‑related conflict might have been avoided absent Israeli influence, Vance replied affirmatively, stating, “Yes, I do.”
He reiterated his belief, shared by President Trump, that Iran must not acquire a nuclear weapon, emphasizing that this stance is independent of any external pressures.
The Israeli Prime Minister’s Office did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
