Washington: US Vice President JD Vance has alleged that members of the Israeli government attempted to influence American public opinion to derail Washington's diplomatic efforts with Iran. Speaking on Joe Rogan's podcast, Vance said he was certain that some Israeli officials wanted the US to continue its military campaign rather than pursue a negotiated settlement.

Vance claimed there had been a well-funded influence campaign aimed at shifting US opinion against the Iran peace deal reached last month. He also alleged that he had been personally targeted for supporting the diplomatic initiative, saying the attacks were linked to his efforts to carry out President Donald Trump's negotiation strategy.

While acknowledging that allies often try to influence US policy, Vance said the problem arises when such campaigns affect American political decision-making. He argued that without Israeli influence, the US might not have become involved in the latest conflict with Iran, although he reiterated his support for preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon.

The vice president defended the US-Iran interim peace agreement, despite strong opposition from Israel. However, the agreement has come under increasing strain following renewed military escalation between the US and Iran in recent days.

Former Israeli diplomat Alon Pinkas described Vance's comments as "unprecedented," saying no sitting US vice president had previously accused Israel of running a campaign to undermine American policy. Analysts say the remarks highlight growing differences between Washington and Israel over the handling of the Iran conflict.