JD Vance Declines To Endorse Netanyahu, Diverging From Trump

Vice President JD Vance opted not to weigh in on the upcoming Israeli election during a discussion aboard Air Force Two on Monday. While speaking with journalist Mark Halperin, Vance stated he is strictly focused on domestic midterm contests. He clarified his position by noting, “I endorse American candidates, and that’s where I’m focused on is the midterm. I’m not getting involved in Israeli elections.”

This stance creates a notable contrast with President Donald Trump, who recently offered a public endorsement for Netanyahu, labeling him a “Great Warrior Prime Minister” in a social media post on Saturday. Trump’s position has evolved, as he had previously told Time earlier this month that he was no longer involved in Israeli politics.

Vance emphasized that his choice to remain neutral is not an explicit rejection of Netanyahu, stating, “I’m not anti-endorsing him. I’m not pro-endorsing him. I’m not getting involved in Israeli elections.” This approach stands in contrast to his actions earlier this year, when he traveled to Budapest to support Viktor Orbán in an election the Hungarian leader ultimately lost.

The divide between the Vice President and the President comes as US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth conducts an unannounced visit to Israel. According to individuals familiar with the matter, Hegseth held meetings on Monday evening with both Prime Minister Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz just days before the national vote.