Israel's Knesset, in a preliminary vote, approved sovereignty in the West Bank, described as a political ploy by right-wing opposition during JD Vance's visit.

A parliamentary vote in favour of annexing the occupied West Bank and accusations of racism against a senior Israeli minister have caused serious embarrassment for prime minister Binyamin Netanyahu in a week of unprecedented visits to the country by US officials.

US Vice President JD Vance delivered a “firm message” to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from US President Donald Trump in Wednesday's Jerusalem meeting. Frustration towards Israel is growing in the White House in light of its counterattack on Gaza on Sunday and the West Bank annexation proposal that was raised in the Knesset,

Vice President JD Vance said a Knesset vote was an "insult." Secretary of State Marco Rubio planned to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu later Thursday.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sought to distance himself Thursday from a Knesset vote that granted preliminary approval to a bill annexing the West Bank, after the measure drew strong condemnation from the White House.

The Knesset is Israel’s parliament, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu having control over the majority in the Knesset. Netanyahu chose to keep the vote, opting to avoid confrontation, but did order his party members not to vote on either bill.

Vice President Vance's scathing remark came as he wrapped up an Israel trip, as the Trump administration attempts to keep up momentum on the U.S.-brokered ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.

Senior White House officials are airing their grievances with Israel as they look to build on a fragile ceasefire with Hamas.