Israel ‘not a protectorate’ of US: Netanyahu before Vance talks

TEL AVIV, Oct 22: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared Wednesday that Israel is not a “protectorate” of the United States and will make its own security decisions. His comments came ahead of a meeting with US Vice President JD Vance to discuss the fragile ceasefire in Gaza and plans for the territory’s future. Netanyahu’s remarks appeared aimed at reassuring the Israeli public amid discussions about deploying an international security force in Gaza. Critics fear such a force could limit Israel’s military operations. “Israel is the one that will decide on its security,” Netanyahu stated. Vice President Vance acknowledged the cha…