What's happened
A Gallup poll shows US public backing for Israel's Gaza campaign has fallen to 32%, the lowest since the war began. Disapproval has increased to 60%, with sharp declines among Democrats and independents. Support for strikes in Iran remains higher but is also divided along partisan lines. Views of Netanyahu are at their lowest since 1997.
What's behind the headline?
The sharp decline in American support for Israel reflects a broader shift in public perception, driven by the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the mounting death toll. The partisan divide is stark: while 71% of Republicans continue to support Israel, only 8% of Democrats do, with independents also turning against the campaign. This polarization is reinforced by perceptions of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who now faces his lowest approval ratings since 1997, especially among Democrats and younger voters. The US government's unwavering support, including billions in military aid, contrasts sharply with public opinion, indicating a disconnect that could influence future policy. The growing criticism within Congress and among the public suggests that US support for Israel may face increasing pressure, especially if humanitarian conditions worsen or if political alignments shift further.
What the papers say
The New Arab reports that support among Americans for Israel's Gaza campaign has fallen to 32%, with disapproval rising to 60%. The poll highlights a significant partisan divide, with 71% of Republicans supporting the campaign, compared to only 8% of Democrats. Meanwhile, support for Israeli strikes in Iran is slightly higher at 38%, but still divided along party lines. Al Jazeera emphasizes the generational and partisan shifts, noting that only 9% of under-35 Americans approve of Israel's actions, and that public discontent is growing among Democrats and independents. The Times of Israel and AP News both highlight Netanyahu's declining approval ratings, now at their lowest since 1997, driven by increased disapproval among Democrats and independents. These sources collectively illustrate a significant erosion of US public support for Israel, contrasting with the bipartisan political backing that remains in Congress, driven by pro-Israel lobbying and strategic interests.
How we got here
Support for Israel in the US has historically been strong, driven by bipartisan backing and pro-Israel lobbying groups. The current conflict, now in its 21st month, has seen a significant shift in public opinion, especially among Democrats and younger voters, amid mounting casualties and humanitarian concerns in Gaza. Despite declining public support, US aid and diplomatic backing for Israel remain largely unchanged.
Go deeper
Common question
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Why Is Support for Israel Declining Among Americans?
Recent polls show a notable shift in American public opinion regarding Israel, especially among Democrats and younger voters. Despite longstanding bipartisan support from US policymakers, many Americans are now questioning their country's backing of Israel's military actions in Gaza. This change raises important questions about the future of US foreign policy and the factors influencing public sentiment. Below, we explore the reasons behind this decline and what it could mean for international relations.
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Gallup may refer to:
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Gallup (surname), a surname
Gallup, New Mexico, a city in New Mexico, United States
Gallup station, an Amtrak train in downtown Gallup, New Mexico
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