US Lawmaker Warns Israel Risks Losing Friends, Aid Over Image

U.S. Representative Brad Sherman has cautioned Israeli leaders that a decline in global public opinion could jeopardize not only annual financial aid from Washington but also Israel's access to American weaponry and diplomatic support. Sherman, a Democrat representing California, urged "every Israeli official and voter" to view a CNN report detailing a sharp deterioration in Israel's positive image among Americans. He stressed the importance of translating the report into Hebrew so Israelis can better grasp the "magnitude of the risks they face."

Sherman stated he discussed the issue with the Israeli Ambassador to the U.S., expressing concern that the ambassador and most Israelis do not fully comprehend the potential consequences of increasing international isolation. "It's not just about the usual $3.8 billion in annual aid, but also about access to American weapons and diplomatic support," Sherman wrote, referring to long-standing U.S. security assistance.

The congressman criticized Israel for failing to take essential steps to improve its international standing, including adequately funding its Foreign Ministry. He also strongly condemned the inclusion of far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir in the Israeli government, calling him an "existential threat" and asserting, "Israel cannot survive without friends in the world."

While acknowledging that Israelis might view anti-Israel sentiment as unjustified, Sherman warned that assuming Israel's actions require no further explanation simply because Israelis find them justifiable reflects "ignorance of Jewish history." He highlighted violence by Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank, stating it will persist unless ministries led by officials committed to stopping it take responsibility.

Sherman linked settler violence to the worsening U.S. attitude toward Israel, citing the CNN report that indicated a shift in opinion extending beyond Democrats and the left to a broader voter base. According to Sherman, polls show a 67-point shift in attitudes against Israel, adding, "The poll numbers CNN reported will only get worse as long as settler violence continues."