US Jewish Community Divided on Military Aid to Israel, Poll Finds

A new poll reveals significant divisions within the American Jewish community regarding military aid to Israel, with 52% favoring a reduction or complete cessation of this assistance. The survey, conducted by The Mellman Group for the Jewish Electorate Institute, indicates that while most American Jews continue to support Israel's actions following the October 7th attacks, there is growing criticism of Israeli policies and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

A substantial portion of respondents, 17%, believe the annual $3.3 billion in U.S. military aid should be entirely stopped, while an additional 36% advocate for its reduction. Conversely, 40% of American Jews wish to maintain the current level of aid, with 8% undecided.

Party affiliation strongly influences these views. Among Democrats, 63% support cutting or ending aid, whereas 67% of Republicans and 65% of independents prefer to keep funding as is. Concerns about potential congressional action to halt aid, including for defensive systems like the Iron Dome, are present across the community, though more pronounced among Republicans.

Furthermore, the poll highlights widespread anxiety that Netanyahu's policies may be exacerbating antisemitic and anti-Israel sentiments in the U.S. A majority of American Jews, 56%, expressed strong concern about this, with 65% of Democrats, 46% of independents, and 34% of Republicans sharing this view. The survey also noted significant worry about antisemitic rhetoric within both the Republican and Democratic parties.

Despite these differing opinions on aid, a majority of respondents (47%) indicated they would be less likely to support a member of Congress who voted to cut aid to Israel, including 36% of those who themselves favor reduced assistance. Only 21% stated they would be more likely to support such a congressman.