U.S. Vice President JD Vance canceled a planned visit to Israel this week due to the rapid expansion of Israeli military operations in Gaza, a senior U.S. official told Axios. Vance's decision comes as the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) launched "Gideon's Chariots," a major ground operation aimed at displacing the 2 million residents of Gaza into a designated "humanitarian zone."

While the official reason given for Vance's change of plans was "logistical constraints," insiders suggest the move was motivated by a desire to avoid appearing supportive of Israel's intensified attacks. The U.S. is currently pressing for a ceasefire and hostage release deal, with White House envoy Steve Witkoff leading negotiations to prevent a broader humanitarian catastrophe.

Hostage Deal and Ceasefire Efforts Intensify

The Trump administration is pushing for a ceasefire agreement as it seeks to prevent further escalation. Witkoff recently presented an updated proposal to both Israeli and Hamas leaders, hoping to secure a breakthrough before a potential full-scale Israeli reoccupation of Gaza. Despite these efforts, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has so far resisted pressure to halt the offensive, insisting that military operations will continue until all objectives are met.