JERUSALEM ,22 October(HS): U.S. Vice-President JD Vance declared on Tuesday that the fragile Gaza ceasefire is in a very good place, striking a positive tone during a high-stakes visit to Israel aimed at shoring up the truce despite a recent deadly flare-up.
Speaking at a news conference, Vance expressed real optimism that the U.S.-brokered peace plan would hold, even after weekend violence threatened to derail the 12-day-old agreement.
The visit, which also included President Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner and U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, is part of a major diplomatic push by the Trump administration to move the deal into its next phase. The ceasefire was tested on Sunday when Israel launched a wave of airstrikes in Gaza after accusing Hamas of killing two of its soldiers in Rafah.
Hamas denied responsibility, and both sides traded accusations of violating the truce. Despite the clashes, which reportedly killed dozens of Palestinians, both Israel and Hamas have since reaffirmed their commitment to the ceasefire.
During the press conference at a newly opened U.S.-led Civilian Military Co-operation Center, Vance addressed several key challenges:
Hamas Disarmament: Vance confirmed Washington will not set a deadline for Hamas to disarm, a key part of the peace plan, but reiterated President Trump’s threat that the group would be obliterated if it fails to comply.
Hostage Remains: He acknowledged the difficulty in locating the bodies of deceased Israeli hostages, stating the process is a focus but is not going to happen overnight due to bodies being buried under rubble.
Future Governance: When asked about the ultimate leadership of Gaza, Vance admitted, I don’t know, emphasizing that the immediate priority is ensuring stability and security before determining long-term governance.
The American delegation’s visit underscores the deep U.S. involvement in managing the post-conflict situation. The plan includes the formation of an International Stabilisation Force, comprised mainly of troops from Arab nations, to handle on-the-ground security.
Jared Kushner added that reconstruction funds would not be directed to any areas that remain under Hamas control.
Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
