US Vice President JD Vance arrived in Israel yesterday to reinforce a delicate Gaza ceasefire agreement, following President Donald Trump’s warning to Hamas about consequences if the truce is violated. Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner had already been in Tel Aviv, meeting with Israeli hostages released by Hamas after being held captive in Gaza for two years.
Israel’s foreign ministry welcomed Vice President Vance and his wife to Israel, sharing a photo of their arrival on social media. The ministry expressed optimism about the collaboration between the two nations in securing a brighter future, including the release of the remaining 15 hostages.
Vance is scheduled to hold meetings with Witkoff, Kushner, and US military experts overseeing the ceasefire. Reports from Israeli media indicate that he will also meet with Israeli leaders, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem today.
Following Israel’s accusations against Hamas for the killings of two soldiers and delays in releasing hostages’ bodies, Israel conducted airstrikes on the territory. Subsequently, Israel stated it had reinforced the ceasefire enforcement.
Efforts are being intensified by the US to solidify the fragile Gaza agreement brokered with Trump’s involvement. Mairav Zonszein, a senior analyst on Israel for the International Crisis Group, noted the complexity of the situation, with Trump supporting the ceasefire while allowing Israel’s military actions.
Trump reiterated his commitment to the deal and warned Hamas of severe consequences if the truce is breached. He pledged support from allied forces to address any violations swiftly.
Hamas denied involvement in the recent violence in Rafah, Gaza, prompting Israel to respond with a series of bombings resulting in casualties. Egypt’s intelligence head Hassan Rashad visited Israel to bolster the ceasefire, coordinating with US envoy Witkoff during the visit.
Qatar, a key mediator in the truce, criticized Israel for alleged violations of the ceasefire. Meanwhile, Hamas expressed confidence in the ceasefire’s sustainability following discussions with mediators and reassurances from the US president.