Vance may visit Israel to push Gaza deal implementation - Axios
Photo: US Vice President JD Vance (Getty Images)
US Vice President JD Vance may visit Israel on October 20. The visit is part of efforts to advance a US-proposed peace deal aimed at ending the war in the Gaza Strip, Axios reports.
The first phase of the agreement was implemented successfully, but the process overall remains "fragile." Tensions are rising as Israel accuses Hamas of delaying the return of the hostages' bodies.
Hamas has launched a campaign of terror in Gaza, attempting to regain control over parts of the territory. Other issues remain unresolved, including the disarmament of Hamas and the demilitarization of Gaza.
On October 17, it was reported that US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff would visit the Middle East on October 19 to monitor the deal's implementation. Later, a source told Axios that the White House informed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office that Vance would lead the delegation, with the timing of the visit slightly adjusted.
The delegation will also include Witkoff and Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law. They will continue working on the agreement. Israeli officials see Vance's visit as a signal that the Trump administration wants full implementation of the deal as soon as possible.
The vice president's office did not respond to requests for comment.
Israel-Hamas peace agreement
A 20-point peace agreement developed by the United States is currently being implemented in the Gaza Strip. Recently, Israel and Hamas signed a deal to halt hostilities.
Hamas militants have handed over all hostages to Israel, but the return of the bodies of fallen Israelis remains unresolved. Hamas is delaying this process. Israeli Prime Minister demands that the next step under the agreement be the disarmament of Hamas.
Trump has stated that Israel could resume military operations in Gaza if Hamas refuses to disarm.
