US VP Vance Rebukes Israel Over Criticism of Iran Peace Deal

United States Vice President JD Vance issued a rare and sharp rebuke to Israel on Thursday, criticising Israeli lawmakers who opposed the memorandum of understanding signed between the US and Iran. During a White House press briefing, Vance warned Israeli officials against attacking their “only powerful ally” in the world.

“If I was in the cabinet of the Israeli government, I might not be attacking the only powerful ally that I have anywhere left in the entire world,” Vance told reporters. “Anybody in Israel who thinks their biggest problem is the president of the United States needs to wake up and smell the reality of the situation.”

The Vice President, who has become the public face of the deal, defended the agreement, stating that Iran would “have to perform” and honour its commitments to receive any benefits. He rejected claims that the deal rewards Iran without achieving US war aims, emphasizing that compliance would be verified over a 60-day period. “Words don’t matter, ladies and gentlemen, we’re about verification,” Vance said, noting that oil prices were falling and the US had already lifted its naval blockade, allowing over a dozen ships to pass.

Vance also announced his intention to travel to Switzerland, possibly this weekend, for technical talks on a long-term agreement. The role is seen as a political gamble for the Vice President, who is widely expected to run for president in 2028. When asked if he feared being made a “fall guy” by President Donald Trump if the deal fails, Vance responded, “I mean, I think the president was joking, as he often does.”