U.S. Vice President JD Vance met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem on Wednesday to discuss the fragile Gaza ceasefire, voicing cautious optimism about progress toward peace even as Israel confirmed the identification of two additional hostages killed by Hamas.

According to a statement from Netanyahu’s office, authorities identified the victims as Arie Zalmanovich and Tamir Adar, both residents of Kibbutz Nir Oz, one of the hardest-hit communities during the October 7, 2023 Hamas attacks that ignited the ongoing two-year war.

The Red Cross transported their bodies in coffins from Gaza and handed them over to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) for formal identification. A military ceremony, attended by the Chief Rabbi of the IDF, was scheduled for later in the day to honor the fallen.

Speaking alongside Netanyahu, Vice President Vance reaffirmed U.S. support for Israel while expressing hope that the current ceasefire would hold. “It’s not easy, but I’m optimistic,” Vance said. “We want to see peace and stability return to this region, and the United States will stand with Israel in making that possible.”

Netanyahu, meanwhile, reiterated his government’s commitment to bringing every hostage home and ensuring Israel’s security against future attacks.

The meeting between Vance and Netanyahu marks a pivotal moment in ongoing diplomatic efforts to stabilize Gaza, as both nations work to balance humanitarian priorities with security imperatives following years of devastating conflict.