JD Vance accuses Israel of 'manipulating' US public opinion to prolong Iran war

US Vice President JD Vance has accused elements within the Israeli government of attempting to manipulate US public opinion to prolong the conflict with Iran. Vance stated that while foreign governments influencing the US is common, he is concerned when American leadership allows this influence to affect their judgment and advocacy. This criticism comes as the Trump administration pursues diplomatic negotiations and military actions to end the war. Vance previously urged Israeli leaders not to attack the US, their sole powerful ally. The conflict between the US and Israel and Iran, which began with strikes in February, has expanded to include attacks on Israel and US-allied states in the Gulf, as well as fighting in Lebanon. Israel views Iran as an existential threat and seeks the removal of its nuclear and missile programs and regime change.

US Vice President JD Vance stated in a Joe Rogan podcast interview that some members of the Israeli government attempted to influence US public opinion against a deal to end the war with Iran. Vance alleged a "foreign influence campaign" funded to undermine the agreement he was pursuing, citing a report about a former Trump campaign manager hired on behalf of Israel. He also claimed these campaigns personally targeted him with "vicious" attacks for his diplomatic efforts. Vance defended the interim peace agreement, asserting that Israeli influence contributed to the US engaging in recent military actions against Iran. The vice president's remarks were described as "unprecedented" and "shocking" by a former Israeli diplomat.