Vance delays Switzerland trip after US–Iran framework deal, unleashes sharp criticism on Israel

The postponed trip

Vice President J.D. Vance was due to fly to Switzerland late Thursday to open the next phase of negotiations, but the White House announced he would not depart that evening. A spokesperson said plans for the technical talks “have not been finalized,” though “the American delegation is prepared to depart at the first opportunity.” The delay was attributed to “pending logistics,” underscoring that “the details of these negotiations were never simple nor predictable.”

For now, the vice president will not depart tonight.

Vance had said earlier that he expected to travel “this weekend,” without being certain. The postponement comes just after the two governments signed a provisional framework and injected fresh uncertainty into the process.

Framework deal and the 60‑day clock

President Trump and Iranian leaders signed a bilateral framework agreement on Wednesday, and Vance confirmed the 60‑day period for striking a final peace deal “officially started today.” The provisional accord leaves the fate of the Strait of Hormuz open, deferring it to the next round. Vance later remarked that the United States believed the vital oil and gas chokepoint “should be free of fees” and that “final negotiations can set the terms for what follows.”

Iran warns of retaliation

Tehran is not presenting itself as a defeated party. Iran’s Supreme National Security Council disclosed that it had already prepared a “mutual response” plan in case the United States violates the agreement. State media reported that the council will not stop “until the rights of the Iranian nation are fully restored” and that any “deviation or violation” by Washington would trigger a predetermined plan.

If there is any deviation or violation, a pre‑established reaction plan will be activated.

Trump claims ‘unconditional surrender’

In an interview with Axios, President Trump described the framework as “probably unconditional surrender,” insisting that the war had demonstrated American military might and that “there are no limits” to his authority. He added that the United States “won completely militarily.” The characterisation stands in contrast to the provisional nature of the deal and Iran’s insistence that it will not abandon its right to self‑defence.

Fractious relationship with Israel

Vance used unusually sharp language to push back at senior Israeli officials who have criticised the agreement since it was announced. He said those in the Israeli cabinet should realise they are internationally isolated and that “two‑thirds” of the weapons that defended Israel over the last three months were paid for by American taxpayers.

If I were in the Israeli government cabinet, I might not attack the only powerful ally I have left anywhere in the whole world.

He also demanded that Israel “respect this peace process,” calling civilian deaths “unacceptable.” While not naming individuals, the remarks followed days of increasingly testy White House statements directed at Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government.