Opinion turning against Israel
Nearly 60% of Americans Say Israel Overreacted in Gaza, Support Palestinian Statehood
Poll underscores sharp decline in U.S. public support for Israel’s war in Gaza, with majority favoring Palestinian statehood recognition.
A new Reuters/Ipsos poll shows a sharp decline in U.S. public support for Israel’s actions in Gaza, with nearly six in ten Americans now saying the country’s military response has been excessive.
The survey, conducted over six days and published Wednesday, found 59% of Americans believe Israel overreacted to the October 7 Hamas attacks, up from 53% in February. Meanwhile, support for Israel’s response dropped by nine percentage points, to just 33%.
In a striking result, 58% of respondents said all United Nations member states should recognize Palestine as a sovereign state, while only one-third opposed the idea.
The poll also revealed strong backing for humanitarian aid: 65% of Americans said the U.S. should help Palestinians facing famine in Gaza, though Republican respondents were more divided, with 41% opposed.
The findings highlight Israel’s eroding image in its most important ally, as U.S. public opinion shifts further toward skepticism of its ongoing military campaign.