Intensive U.S. Efforts to Consolidate the Gaza Truce: Vance in Israel Amidst Diplomatic Challenges and Fears of Agreement Collapse

In a pivotal development on the international scene, U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance arrived in Israel on Tuesday for an urgent mission aimed at stabilizing the fragile ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, amidst escalating military operations in eastern Rafah in the southern part of the Strip.

Vance’s visit is part of the White House’s efforts to salvage the recently reached truce, as President Donald Trump expresses growing concerns that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu might pull back from fulfilling the agreement’s terms, despite both sides affirming their current commitment to the ceasefire.

This diplomatic movement coincides with intense parallel visits, notably Egyptian General Intelligence Chief Hassan Rashad’s arrival in Tel Aviv to conduct crucial meetings in support of the truce. He joins U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff and top international mediators, including President Trump's adviser Jared Kushner, along with representatives from Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey.

According to the terms of the ceasefire, the agreement provides for the exchange of prisoners, with Israel releasing 2,000 Palestinian prisoners in return for Hamas releasing 20 Israeli captives on October 13.

Vance’s visit, which will continue through Thursday, carries a direct message from the U.S. administration, urging both sides to preserve the agreement and not undermine the truce, especially in light of repeated military strikes and mounting field tensions.

Meanwhile, the Trump administration is pressing ahead with a post-war plan, aiming to disarm Hamas fighters and form an international force responsible for Gaza’s security, ultimately transferring administration of the Strip to an independent Palestinian authority. However, Hamas remains steadfast in its opposition to key provisions of the agreement, reflecting a complex path toward a settlement, given the ongoing regional and international disagreements.

Currently, the Israeli-Palestinian arena faces critical crossroads between American and international efforts, amid global anticipation for the implementation of the agreement and stabilization of the ceasefire, while fears remain of the potential collapse of the peace process in Gaza.