Vance: Implementation of the ceasefire plan in Gaza is "better than expected" and we emphasize the need to disarm Hamas
In a press conference held during his visit to Israel, U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance expressed optimism about the implementation of the ceasefire plan in the Gaza Strip, considering that its execution is "going better than expected".
Vance praised Israeli cooperation, saying: "The Israeli government has provided significant assistance in implementing the Gaza plan," noting that there is "careful monitoring from a command center inside Israel for the ceasefire".
The U.S. Vice President pointed out that there are field challenges, indicating that "the locations of the bodies of some Israeli captives in the sector remain unknown." He warned of the consequences of Hamas continuing its current stance, asserting that "the continuation of the Palestinian Hamas movement in refusing to cooperate or relinquish arms will lead to 'very bad things', and could reach 'its complete elimination'".
Regarding the U.S. military presence, Vance clarified that his country "does not intend to deploy ground forces in Gaza," emphasizing that "the type of forces that will be present under the plan should be agreed upon with the Israeli side." He also confirmed that "the United States does not impose anything on Israel," expressing his belief that "Turkey can play a constructive role in the next phase".
On the Iranian file, Vance stated that "Trump wishes for good relations with Tehran," without clarifying whether there are expected diplomatic steps.
For his part, U.S. envoy and Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner, said that "progress is being made regarding the file of recovering the bodies of captives from Gaza." He added that "there is significant coordination between Israel and the United Nations regarding the humanitarian aid provided to the sector," noting that "Israel and Hamas are currently moving to a ceasefire situation".
