US Public Opinion on Israel Shifts, 53% Now Hold Unfavorable View

Washington D.C. – Former President Donald Trump recently acknowledged a significant decline in Israel's lobbying power within the U.S. Congress, attributing the shift to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. In an interview with Reagan Reese of the Daily Caller, Trump expressed surprise at the perceived change, stating, "Israel was the strongest lobby I’ve ever seen. They had total control over Congress, and now they don’t, you know, I’m a little surprised to see that." The full transcript of the conversation was released on the Daily Caller.

Trump's comments align with recent polling data indicating a notable shift in American public sentiment towards Israel. A March Pew Research Center poll revealed that 53% of U.S. adults now hold an unfavorable view of Israel, a substantial increase from 42% in 2022, prior to the October 7, 2023, events. This growing disapproval extends across various demographics, including a rise in unfavorable views among younger Republicans.

Further data from a July Gallup poll shows a sharp decline in approval for Israel's military actions in Gaza, reaching a new low of 32%, with 60% of Americans disapproving. This marks a 10-percentage-point drop since September 2024. The decline is particularly pronounced among Democrats and independents, while Republican support remains relatively stable, creating a significant partisan divide.

Analysts suggest that extensive media coverage, particularly on social media, of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza has influenced public perception, especially among younger generations. A survey by The Harris Poll and HarrisX in August 2025 indicated that 60% of Americans aged 18-24 expressed support for Hamas over Israel, a stark contrast to older demographics. This generational divide highlights the evolving landscape of public opinion regarding the conflict.

The former president also remarked on Israel's public relations challenges, noting, "They may be winning the war, but they’re not winning the world of public relations, you know, and it is hurting them." This sentiment underscores the growing concern that military success may not translate into sustained international or domestic support in the face of shifting public opinion. The changing dynamics could pose challenges for future U.S. foreign policy and the long-standing alliance between the two nations.