**Vance Claims Epstein Had Connections to U.S. and Israeli Intelligence**
In a recent interview with podcaster Joe Rogan, U.S. Vice President JD Vance made significant assertions regarding the late Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender. Vance claimed that Epstein had connections to both American and Israeli intelligence agencies, particularly the Mossad, Israel's national intelligence service.
During the discussion, which was released on July 16, 2026, Vance was prompted to address various theories surrounding Epstein's ties to intelligence organizations. He stated, "He clearly had connections to the upper, the highest levels of American intelligence. He clearly had connections to the highest levels of Israeli intelligence." This assertion has sparked renewed interest in the controversial figure, who was previously associated with numerous high-profile individuals and events.
Vance further elaborated on Epstein's connections to Israeli intelligence, suggesting that they leaned towards a left-of-center ideological stance. "Epstein seemed to be connected to the elements of the Israeli deep state that were left of centre. I’ve always found that fascinating. It wasn’t like he was super connected to the right of centre of Israeli politics," he remarked. This characterization adds a new dimension to the ongoing discussions about Epstein's relationships and influence.
The Vice President also reflected on the handling of communications related to Epstein during the Trump administration. He acknowledged that the administration "absolutely" mishandled the dissemination of information concerning Epstein's files. Vance specifically pointed to former Attorney General Pam Bondi, who had previously indicated that an alleged client list belonging to Epstein was "sitting on my desk right now." Under Bondi's leadership, the Justice Department had provided conservative commentators with documents labeled as “The Epstein files: Phase 1” and “Declassified.”
Vance defended Bondi, stating, "I know Pam. I like Pam. I don’t think there was anything malicious going on. I think Pam was trying to respond to the political moment. I think she overstated what we had and what we didn’t have." He acknowledged that Bondi faced significant public backlash for her comments, which contributed to a perception of mistrust regarding the administration's transparency on the Epstein files.
"We absolutely screwed up the comms of the Epstein files. Like, we just did," Vance admitted. However, he emphasized that he did not believe the miscommunication stemmed from an intent to conceal information.
The interview has reignited discussions about Epstein's extensive network and the implications of his connections to powerful individuals and institutions. Epstein's past associations have been the subject of scrutiny since his arrest and subsequent death in 2019, raising questions about accountability and the influence of elite circles in both the U.S. and abroad.
As the conversation surrounding Epstein continues to evolve, Vance's comments may further complicate the narrative and prompt additional inquiries into the intersections of politics, intelligence, and personal relationships in the context of Epstein's life and activities.