US Vice President JD Vance said the Gaza ceasefire “is going better than expected.” He emphasized that the truce would survive despite Israel’s recent airstrikes.

Vance made the statement during his official visit to Israel. He warned Hamas that “if Hamas does not co-operate, it will be obliterated.” His trip is part of the Trump administration’s push to protect the ceasefire after violence threatened to break it.

Vance Pushes for Lasting Peace

During his visit, Vance plans to press Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to start talks on long-term peace. He praised Israel for being “remarkably helpful” in achieving the truce’s main goals.

Meanwhile, US envoy Steve Witkoff and senior advisor Jared Kushner met Netanyahu on Monday. They discussed the ceasefire as both Israel and Hamas continued to blame each other for violations.

Furthermore, Vance dismissed the idea that his trip was hastily organized. He said it was part of an ongoing plan to “maintain momentum” toward peace.

Trump’s Peace Plan Gains Momentum

President Donald Trump sent Vance and his envoys to Israel to keep the peace process alive. Their goal is to begin the second phase of Trump’s 20-point Gaza peace plan.

This phase focuses on setting up an interim Palestinian government, deploying an international stabilisation force, withdrawing Israeli troops, and disarming Hamas.

Vance stressed that the US remains fully committed to advancing these steps and ensuring that both sides follow the deal.

Israel Recovers More Hostage Remains

On Tuesday, Israel’s military announced that two more hostage bodies from Gaza had been returned. Officials are now working to identify them.

Since the ceasefire began on October 10, the remains of 15 hostages have been returned to Israel. However, 13 more hostages are still missing.

Vance urged Israelis to remain patient as the process continues. “Some of these hostages are buried under thousands of pounds of rubble. Some of the hostages, nobody even knows where they are,” he explained.

US Urges Calm and Cooperation

Vance encouraged both sides to show restraint and focus on peace. His visit highlights Washington’s ongoing role in ensuring stability and preventing another outbreak of violence.

With continued diplomatic efforts and international pressure, the Trump administration hopes to turn the fragile ceasefire into a lasting peace deal.