Vance urges Netanyahu to preserve Gaza ceasefire in Jerusalem talks

US Vice President JD Vance, during his official visit to Israel, has called on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to maintain the fragile Gaza ceasefire and allow the US-backed agreement to proceed. The appeal, reported by Israel's Channel 12 citing officials from both nations, sought to secure Israel's commitment to the truce that halted recent hostilities.

A Plea for Patience

In the meeting held in West Jerusalem, Vance directly told Netanyahu to "give the deal a chance and give us time to make things happen." According to sources familiar with the discussion, the Israeli leader responded positively, stating his own desire to see the agreement succeed and showing openness to the US vice president's message about upholding the ceasefire and advancing to the next phases of the deal.

Broader Post-War Plans

The diplomatic exchange also involved broader plans for Gaza's future. An American official present indicated that the US administration is actively working to garner support from Arab states. This effort aims to secure economic, military, and diplomatic backing for a proposed international force to be deployed in Gaza and for a peace council tasked with fundraising for the reconstruction of the devastated Strip.

The Diplomatic Context

Vance's trip to Israel represents a continued US diplomatic push to solidify the ceasefire. The success of the agreement, which includes subsequent stages beyond the initial halt in fighting, is a key priority for the administration as it seeks to stabilize the region and coordinate international efforts for Gaza's governance and rebuilding.