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Pakistan, Oct. 21 — U.S. Vice President JD Vance arrived in Israel on Tuesday with the aim of supporting the delicate Gaza ceasefire and encouraging further developments. He met with senior Israeli officials as part of initiatives to transition discussions into a second stage under President Trump’s 20-point strategy. This trip comes amid rising worries over repeated ceasefire breaches and the sluggish movement of aid and remains.

The truce, which has been in place for eight days, continues to be fragile. Israel and Hamas have both accused each other of violating the agreement. While some of the hostages’ remains have been handed back and aid has arrived in Gaza, the need for humanitarian assistance is still significant. The United Nations reports that supplies are still well below daily goals, and northern Gaza has not yet received any relief.

Learn more: Israeli forces conduct strikes in Gaza; truce facing challenges

Vance is anticipated to urge Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu to provide guarantees that Hamas will ultimately lay down its arms. However, Hamas officials convening in Cairo have not accepted this requirement. Rather, they back the establishment of a neutral Palestinian committee to manage Gaza, with no involvement from Hamas, although with its endorsement. This proposal remains under consideration by mediators such as Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey.

Trump’s proposed ceasefire strategy also encompasses long-term objectives such as the creation of a Palestinian state. Nevertheless, these initiatives encounter significant opposition. The situation remains tense following Hamas’ execution of suspected collaborators, which has drawn criticism from the United States. Still, Hamas asserts its dedication to the initial commitments, including the return of bodies and adherence to the ceasefire.

Learn more: Hamas Returns Another Hostage’s Body to Israel

Aid is gradually rising through two checkpoints, yet it remains insufficient. Violence near Israel’s military withdrawal zone persists, with fresh casualties reported. As tensions rise among all sides, Vance’s visit represents a crucial effort to maintain diplomatic progress and prevent the truce from breaking down.