US Vice President JD Vance has accused sections of the Israeli government of attempting to influence American public opinion in an effort to prolong the conflict with Iran, exposing fresh differences within the US administration over the direction of Middle East policy.
In an interview with conservative podcaster Joe Rogan, Vance said he believes some Israeli officials have worked to undermine Washington’s diplomatic engagement with Tehran and to influence American opinion to keep the conflict going for an extended period.
According to Vance, a well-funded campaign sought to derail negotiations between the US and Iran. He said some Israeli leaders opposed the diplomatic understanding reached between Washington and Tehran and were attempting to shift US policy away from negotiations.
The remarks came after the US and Iran reached a MoU last month aimed at continuing formal negotiations. The agreement included a proposed 60-day ceasefire and provisions linked to reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Despite those efforts, tensions have intensified again, with renewed US military strikes on Iran and retaliatory attacks by Tehran against American allies in the Gulf region.
Vance played an active role in the diplomatic process, participating in negotiations held in Pakistan and later attending the signing of the memorandum in Switzerland. He said foreign governments regularly attempt to influence US policy.