Vance Arrives in Israel to Reinforce Fragile Gaza Ceasefire

TDT | Manama

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In a high-stakes diplomatic push, U.S. Vice President JD Vance touched down in Israel on Tuesday, seeking to stabilize a fragile Gaza ceasefire amid renewed tensions. The visit follows a stern warning from President Donald Trump, who declared that Hamas would be "wiped out" if it violated the truce.

Vance’s arrival comes as Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff and senior adviser Jared Kushner continue delicate negotiations in Tel Aviv. The pair met with several Israeli hostages recently freed after enduring two harrowing years in Hamas captivity.

“Welcome to Israel, Vice President Vance,” the Israeli Foreign Ministry posted on social media, sharing an image of Vance and his wife descending the aircraft steps. “Together, the Promised Land and the Land of the Free can secure a better future — including the release of the remaining 15 hostages.”

During his visit, Vance will convene with Witkoff, Kushner, and U.S. military officials overseeing the ceasefire’s implementation. He is also expected to meet Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and senior Israeli defense leaders in Jerusalem on Wednesday.

The mission takes place under heightened strain. Over the weekend, Israel accused Hamas of killing two soldiers and delaying the return of hostages’ remains. In response, Israeli forces launched a series of strikes across Gaza, later describing their actions as “renewed enforcement” of the truce rather than a breach.

With trust between the warring sides hanging by a thread, Washington is intensifying its diplomatic efforts to solidify the agreement Trump personally helped broker — a deal that could define the next chapter of Middle Eastern peace efforts.

“This is about preserving a fragile peace and ensuring every hostage comes home,” a senior U.S. official said, underscoring the urgency behind Vance’s mission.