Vance defends Iran deal, says U.S. ‘only powerful ally’ Israel has left

U.S. Vice President JD Vance stated Thursday that the U.S. Navy has permitted more than a dozen ships passage to Iranian ports, effectively lifting a blockade as part of an agreement to end the war.

Speaking at a White House press briefing, Vance announced that increased oil flow is now occurring through the Strait of Hormuz, with over 12.5 million barrels transiting the shipping channel Wednesday night. "So we’re also honoring our end of the early part of the agreement on the military side," Vance said, highlighting this as an immediate benefit of the deal and downplaying criticisms that the agreement favors Iran.

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So we’re also honoring our end of the early part of the agreement on the military side

In a notable statement, Vance cautioned U.S. critics in Israel against "attacking the only powerful ally" they have left. He directly addressed members of the Israeli government, warning them that "Donald J. Trump is the only head of state in the entire world who is sympathetic to the nation of Israel at this moment in time."

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attacking the only powerful ally

Vance mentioned plans to travel to Switzerland for talks on the Iran deal, though the timing remains uncertain. He had been expected to lead negotiations on implementing the agreement, which aims to reduce Iran's stockpile of highly enriched uranium and resume oil traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.

Maritime data company Lloyd’s List Intelligence reported that major shipowners have begun moving vessels through the Strait of Hormuz since the agreement was signed. While specific numbers were not provided, Richard Meade, editor in chief of Lloyd’s List, noted that for the first time in 110 days, ships owned by major companies are transiting the strait after being effectively marooned since February. Tankers from Grimaldi Group, Cosco, Knutsen, and NYK have passed through, alongside two sanctioned Iranian crude oil tankers.

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Donald J. Trump is the only head of state in the entire world who is sympathetic to the nation of Israel at this moment in time.