Former minister Ron Dermer made special mention of VP Vance and his role in the war against Iran in a recent address to the Republican Jewish Coalition.
“Vice President Vance played a critical role in that 12-day war, and especially on the first day, when the element of surprise was so critical to our success. I will be forever grateful to him for the role he played in a critical moment. It kept Israel safe," Dermer said.
Dermer’s comments came amid criticism from some pro-Israel figures of Vance’s ties to podcast host Tucker Carlson, who has provided a platform to antisemitic figures, as well as over comments by Vance that were poorly received in Israel.
During a closed-door conversation with RJC Chairman Norm Coleman, a recording of which was published by The Daily Wire, Vance defended his willingness to appear on influential podcasts, arguing that Republicans need to reach voters wherever they are. The vice president also said there are limits to whom he is willing to engage with, explaining that he does not hold discussions with people who have attacked his wife or praised Adolf Hitler. Vance did not directly condemn Carlson during the exchange.
Vance has previously faced criticism over comments made during an appearance on Joe Rogan’s podcast, where he claimed that Israeli figures were attempting to influence American public opinion in order to prolong the war.