Rising Anti-Israel Sentiment Among U.S. Citizens: New Survey Shows a Shift in Public Opinion

A recent survey indicates a growing anti-Israel sentiment among U.S. citizens, with six out of ten Americans expressing negative views towards the Israeli government. According to a study published by the Pew Research Center on Friday, public opinion has shifted significantly since Israel's war with Hamas began on October 7, 2023.

The survey reveals that 39% of Americans believe Israel is using "excessive force" in its military operations against Hamas, up from 31% in September 2024 and 27% in December 2023. Meanwhile, negative views toward the Israeli government have risen by 8% compared to the start of 2024, now reaching 59%.

Only 16% of respondents think Israel is on the right path, while 10% believe Israel's military actions are insufficient, with the rest remaining uncertain.

The survey also highlights that 42% of Americans criticize the role of the Trump administration in the Gaza conflict, while only 30% support its stance. Additionally, 36% feel that Trump has shown excessive favoritism toward Israel, a rise from 31% in March. Just 2% of respondents said Trump has become more pro-Palestinian.

Around one-third of Americans expressed concerns about the U.S. providing excessive military aid to Israel, while 23% believed the current level of assistance is appropriate, and 8% felt it was insufficient.

When it comes to aid for ordinary Palestinians, however, the perception is different. Only 9% believe aid to Palestinians is excessive, while 20% think it is adequate, and 35% believe the assistance is too little.

The survey also showed widespread concern among Americans about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. About 80% of respondents expressed worry over food shortages and civilian casualties resulting from Israeli airstrikes. Similarly, 69% are concerned about Israeli soldiers forcing Palestinians to leave Gaza.

Additionally, 80% of Americans are worried about the ongoing detention of hostages by Israel, and 73% fear that Hamas could launch future attacks on Israel.

Democrats are more concerned about the plight of Palestinians than Republicans, while Republicans are more focused on the potential for future Hamas attacks. However, both parties share similar concerns regarding the release of hostages.

Hostility toward Hamas is clear, with 84% of Americans holding negative views of the group. Meanwhile, 68% of Americans view the Palestinian Authority unfavorably.

There is relatively more sympathy for the Israeli people, with 56% of Americans expressing positive views toward Israelis and 52% holding favorable views toward Palestinians. However, positive views of Israelis have declined by 8% in the past year and by 11% compared to 2022.

Democrats and left-leaning independents are more sympathetic to Palestinians, with 70% expressing positive views, compared to just 37% of Republicans and Republican-leaning voters.

Moreover, only 18% of Democrats view the Israeli government favorably, compared to 55% of Republicans.

Young Americans (aged 18-29) are more likely to oppose U.S. military aid to Israel, with 42% agreeing that the U.S. is providing excessive support, compared to just 24% of those aged 65 and older.

The Pew Research survey, which was conducted between September 22 and 28 with a sample size of 3,445 respondents, has a margin of error of 1.9%. The survey was carried out before the Trump administration announced 20 peace proposals regarding the Gaza conflict.