JD Vance denies Gaza genocide after Theo Von confronts him on This Past Weekend podcast

On a recent episode of This Past Weekend with Theo Von, U.S. Vice President JD Vance was challenged over the U.S. role in the Israel-Gaza conflict, particularly regarding allegations of genocide. The exchange highlighted both the emotional and political tensions surrounding the war and America’s involvement.

During the conversation, Von expressed horror at the imagery emerging from Gaza, saying, “We’re seeing all these videos of people like picking up pieces of their children... it feels like a massacre... I’ve called it a genocide.” He questioned U.S. complicity, pointing to military aid sent to Israel: “As a regular guy, you’re like, well, I’m paying these taxes and they’re going towards this.”

Vance, while acknowledging the heartbreak, rejected the use of the term “genocide.” “Do I think it’s a genocide? No,” he said. “I don’t think the Israelis are purposely trying to go in and murder every Palestinian. They got hit hard, and they’re trying to destroy a terrorist organization. War is hell.”

The Vice President emphasized the Trump administration’s dual-track approach: securing Israel’s safety while increasing aid to Palestinian civilians. “We’re trying to get to a peaceful resolution that gives Israel confidence Hamas won’t attack them again, while also getting as much aid and support to Palestinians as possible,” Vance explained.

Von did not hold back, questioning whether U.S. foreign policy prioritizes Israeli interests over American ones. Vance pushed back, pointing to ongoing diplomatic efforts led by Trump’s special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff. “He’s a Jewish guy who believes in the state of Israel... but also is trying to prevent the killing,” Vance said, defending Witkoff from critics within the pro-Israel camp.

While distancing himself from more extreme rhetoric on both sides, Vance stressed the need for empathy. “If you have a soul, your heart should break when you see a little kid who’s suffering,” he said, adding that diplomacy—not blind allegiance—is the cornerstone of their approach.

As the Gaza conflict continues to draw scrutiny, the podcast revealed the complexity and emotional weight of the debate, especially as American policymakers face rising public demand for accountability.