A recent poll conducted by the Chicago Council on Global Affairs revealed that 60% of Americans support the United States continuing its military aid to Israel until the release of hostages held by Hamas. However, support drops to 49% when the goal is described as dismantling Hamas, the terror group responsible for recent attacks. The poll also found that a narrow majority, 53%, believe that US military aid to Israel should not be used for operations against Palestinians.
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has resulted in more than 40,000 Palestinian deaths, with no resolution in sight despite talks of a potential ceasefire. The survey indicated that a plurality of Americans believe the US is striking the right balance in its support of Israel, while others believe more should or not enough is being done. The level of military aid provided to Israel is a point of contention between Democrats and Republicans, with Democrats more likely to believe that the US is providing too much support.
Republican leaders have generally supported Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government, with former President Donald Trump calling for Israel to “finish the job” in Gaza. Democrats like Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer have criticized Netanyahu’s conduct, while President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have called for a ceasefire and expressed concern about the suffering in Gaza. Partisan divides are evident in views of Israel’s conduct, with Republicans more likely to believe Israel is justified in its actions, while Democrats are more critical.
While Americans generally view the US positively in resolving issues in the Middle East, opinions on Israel are less favorable, with only 39% seeing Israel as a positive force. There is a significant partisan split in views of Israeli actions, with Republicans more likely to justify Israel’s military actions while Democrats are more critical. Democrats are also increasingly in favor of an independent Palestinian state, while Republicans are less likely to support this. These attitudes have remained steady over the past six years, indicating ongoing polarization on this issue.
Overall, there is a sharp divide in American attitudes toward Israel’s military actions and treatment of Palestinians, with Democrats more critical and Republicans more supportive. The survey results point to ongoing challenges in US policy towards Israel and Palestine, with potential implications for future diplomatic efforts in the region. Despite differing opinions, there is a shared concern for the suffering in Gaza and a desire for a lasting peace solution in the conflict.
