US Vice President Claims Israel Paid Influencers to Attack Iran Deal Talks

US Vice President J.D. Vance sharply criticized Israel in a podcast interview with Joe Rogan on Wednesday, alleging that Israeli actors paid American influencers to oppose negotiations with Iran. Vance said there is clear evidence of a well-funded covert campaign aimed at undermining the Iran nuclear deal talks. He referenced a Time magazine article covering the issue and described Israel as a normal ally like France or Britain, with whom the US has both disagreements and agreements. However, he stated that Israel is currently losing the battle for public opinion in the United States.

Vance acknowledged that Israel is not the only country trying to influence American politics, noting that all nations, allies or adversaries, attempt to sway US policy. He expressed concern that American leadership sometimes allows such influence to distort its judgment. He also accused Israeli elements of seeking to prolong conflict indefinitely. Regarding Iran, Vance suggested that if Tehran changes its behavior, investments from Gulf states could benefit both Israel and the region.

In a controversial claim near the interview's end, Vance alleged that convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein had ties to intelligence agencies, including Mossad and the CIA, asserting Epstein was connected to the highest levels of American and Israeli intelligence without providing evidence. The interview highlights tensions in US-Israel relations and debates over influence and policy toward Iran.