US Vice President JD Vance backs Iran agreement, defends it against Israel criticism

Vice President JD Vance has been tasked with overseeing the implementation of the administration’s controversial memorandum of understanding with Iran. The proposal has drawn criticism from national‑security hawks, Democrats, traditional Republicans and many within the president’s own base. In response, Vance warned Israel to “stop complaining,” urging gratitude for U.S. support despite ongoing concerns about the deal’s unresolved issues.

Vance also argued that U.S. foreign‑aid programs have been used for geopolitical aims. Citing the Democracy Delivers Initiative, he said the previous aid structure favored left‑wing NGOs that influenced elections in Latin America. The program, which spans Moldova, Armenia, Fiji, the Maldives, Nepal and Zambia, is presented as a rapid, multi‑stakeholder effort to support democratic reforms and address pressing needs such as corruption, food insecurity and digital threats, reflecting a strategic, rather than purely altruistic, U.S. approach to aid.