Under Trump, US public opinion turns sharply against Israel amid war
Growing American disapproval of Israel and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reflects outrage over US-backed wars, including the ongoing assault on Iran and regional escalation
WASHINGTON (MNTV) — Public support for Israel in the United States has dropped to historic lows under President Donald Trump, as outrage mounts over Washington’s backing of Israeli military campaigns across the Middle East, including the ongoing war on Iran.
A new survey by Pew Research Center shows that 60 percent of American adults now hold an unfavorable view of Israel — a sharp increase from 42 percent in 2022, before Israel’s devastating war on Gaza and its subsequent expansion into a wider regional conflict.
The poll highlights a significant erosion of long-standing bipartisan support for Israel, with negative perceptions rising across both major political parties.
Among younger Americans aged 18 to 49, opposition is even more pronounced, with 70 percent expressing unfavorable views — reflecting growing dissatisfaction with Israel’s military actions and Washington’s continued support.
Disapproval of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has also intensified, with 59 percent of respondents saying they do not trust him to act responsibly in global affairs — up from 53 percent a year earlier.
The shift in public opinion comes as Israel, backed politically and militarily by the United States, continues a series of devastating offensives across Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran.
Critics argue that US military aid — amounting to roughly $3.8 billion annually — has enabled large-scale destruction, including tens of thousands of deaths in Gaza, widespread displacement, and the near-collapse of essential infrastructure such as hospitals and schools.
Analysts say the war on Iran, reportedly encouraged by Netanyahu during high-level discussions with Trump, has further fueled public backlash. The conflict has expanded beyond Iran’s borders, triggering regional instability and intensifying scrutiny of US foreign policy.
Despite growing domestic opposition, US political leadership has largely maintained its support for Israel, drawing criticism from observers who argue that public sentiment is increasingly disconnected from policy decisions.
Recent polling also suggests that Israel has become a decisive political issue in US elections. Surveys indicate that candidates opposing military aid to Israel are gaining substantial support, particularly among Democratic voters, signaling a potential shift in the country’s political landscape.
The findings underscore a broader transformation in American attitudes, as prolonged wars, rising civilian casualties, and escalating regional tensions — including Iran’s retaliatory actions — continue to reshape perceptions of US alliances and global strategy.
We must take charge of our narrative. Research indicates that 92% of their Muslim coverage is negative. Help us change that.
Have Your Say!
Have you been affected by the issues raised in this story? Please share your experiences by emailing haveyoursay@soundvision.com.
Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a Muslim Network TV’s representative. You can also get in touch in the following ways:
Tweet: @MuslimNetworkTV
