"Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu leads a country that is a close partner of the US. While the two nations share many common interests, their interests sometimes diverge," US Vice President JD Vance stated in an interview released by CBS on 10/6.

Vance described prime minister Netanyahu as "a leader who fiercely defends his country's interests," but noted that president Donald Trump also held clear views on what was best for the US.

"This means we sometimes share views, but at other times we do not. When differences arise, unfortunately for Israel, US officials must prioritize the interests of their own people," he stated.

US vice president JD Vance at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, 28/5. Photo: AP

"He certainly made some mistakes," vice president Vance said when asked if prime minister Netanyahu had erred in the US-Israel relationship concerning Iran, though he declined to elaborate.

However, the US vice president affirmed that prime minister Netanyahu and Israel remain "good partners," stressing continued cooperation between the two sides. "When differences in interests emerge, the US will pursue what is best for its nation. That is how it will unfold," he explained.

Israeli officials have not yet commented on the statements.

President Trump stated on 7/6 that the decision to engage in conflict with Iran rests with the US, not Israel's prime minister. Should the US and Iran achieve a peace agreement, Trump suggested Israeli leaders would have no choice but to "accept the new reality."

The US president also confirmed expressing his frustration and using strong language with prime minister Netanyahu during a recent phone call.

By Ngoc Anh (Source: CBS, AP)