U.S. Vice President JD Vance has accused some members of the Israeli government of attempting to influence American public opinion to undermine U.S. diplomacy with Iran and prolong the ongoing conflict.
Speaking during a podcast interview, Vance claimed that certain individuals within Israel’s government were engaged in what he described as a well-funded influence campaign aimed at shifting U.S. policy away from a negotiated settlement. He said such efforts sought to keep the military campaign against Iran going indefinitely.
Vance emphasized that foreign governments often attempt to influence U.S. policy, but argued that such campaigns become problematic if they affect American political decision-making. His remarks mark one of the strongest public criticisms of Israeli government actions by a senior Trump administration official in recent months.
The comments come amid continued debate over the Trump administration’s Iran policy and a U.S.-brokered agreement intended to reduce hostilities. The deal has faced criticism from some U.S. and Israeli officials, who argue it does not adequately address Iran’s missile program or broader regional security concerns.
The Israeli government had not publicly responded to Vance’s remarks at the time of reporting. The White House, meanwhile, reiterated that foreign governments often seek to influence public opinion but maintained that President Donald Trump and Vice President Vance remain aligned on U.S. policy toward Iran.
The remarks are expected to intensify discussion over U.S.-Israel relations and the future direction of American policy in the Middle East as the Iran conflict continues.