US Vice-President JD Vance has accused certain members of the Israeli government of attempting to influence American public opinion to prolong the conflict with Iran. In an interview published on Wednesday, July 16th, 2026, with conservative podcaster Joe Rogan, Vance said that while he trusts some Israeli officials, others are "manipulating and trying to change American public opinion to keep the war going on indefinitely."

Vance further alleged a "very discreet, extremely well-funded campaign to try to derail the negotiation and try to derail the deal," adding there is "exact evidence" that some Israeli leaders "hate the deal." This refers to the memorandum of understanding (MOU) reached between the US and Iran last month, which allowed formal negotiations to continue, included a now-abandoned 60-day ceasefire, and contained a condition to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

He expressed concern about American leadership allowing such foreign influence to affect their judgment and advocacy. Earlier in June, Vance urged Israeli political leaders not to attack "the only powerful ally" they have "anywhere left in the entire world," amid criticism from some Israeli politicians over the US-Iran ceasefire extension.

The Israeli government did not immediately respond to Vance's comments. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said on Thursday, July 17th, that "the president would certainly agree that, yes, foreign countries certainly do try to persuade American public opinion."

Sources