US vice president cancels trip to Israel to avoid expanding Gaza operation

US Vice President JD Vance, who had initially planned to visit Israel on May 20, ultimately canceled the trip due to the expanding Israeli military operation in Gaza.

The decision was made in order to avoid sending a message that the Trump administration endorsed Israel’s large-scale military actions, which come at a time when the US is pushing for a ceasefire and a resolution to the ongoing hostage situation, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

"This isn't about publicly pressuring Israel," the official clarified, emphasising that Vance’s decision to cancel was based on "logistical" reasons. However, the move reflects the Biden administration's concerns regarding Israel’s current actions in Gaza.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has firmly rejected any agreements that would bring an end to the war, showing little flexibility in negotiations despite ongoing efforts by US envoy Steve Witkoff to secure a deal and prevent further escalation. 

The Israeli government has also been under pressure from international allies, including the US, to take steps toward halting its military operations. On May 16, Israel's military launched "Operation Gideon’s Chariots," which involves relocating Gaza's 2 million Palestinians to a designated "humanitarian zone" while aiming to destroy much of the enclave. 

Ground operations in multiple areas of Gaza began on May 18, further intensifying the conflict. According to Israeli officials, the Trump administration had communicated to Israel on May 17 that Vice President Vance was considering a stop in Israel after attending the pope’s inauguration. Talks between US and Israeli officials continued into May 18, and rumours circulated in the Israeli press that Vance would arrive on May 20. 

However, a White House official later denied those reports, explaining that "logistical constraints" prevented any extension of the Vice President’s travel plans. Vance ultimately returned to Washington as initially scheduled. As the US administration works to broker a ceasefire and secure the release of hostages, it is also focused on ensuring that humanitarian aid reaches Gaza to mitigate the growing crisis. 

Under pressure from the US and European allies, Israel's Security Cabinet has agreed to resume aid transfers through existing channels while a new humanitarian mechanism is put into place. US envoy Witkoff has continued to press both Israel and Hamas to agree on a deal that would involve a ceasefire and the release of more hostages.

By Naila Huseynova