US Congressman Warns Israel Risks Military Aid Over Shifting Public Opinion
Translated & summarized from Cursorinfo by baba
U.S. Congressman Brad Sherman warned Israel that declining American public support, reflected in recent polls, could jeopardize military aid and diplomatic backing. He cited concerns over the current Israeli government's policies and urged attention to shifting public opinion.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- US Congressman Brad Sherman warns of reduced military aid to Israel.
- Shifting American public opinion is cited as the primary threat.
- Polls show declining favorability and support for cutting aid.
- Sherman links negative sentiment to current Israeli government policies.
- Israel's access to weapons and diplomatic support may be at risk.
Democratic Congressman Brad Sherman has issued a stark warning to Israel, cautioning that deteriorating American public opinion poses a significant threat to the long-standing relationship between the two nations. Sherman, a long-time supporter of Israel, highlighted recent polling data indicating a decline in favorability towards the Jewish state among Americans, suggesting this trend could lead to reduced U.S. military assistance, arms sales, and diplomatic backing.
Sherman shared CNN reports featuring poll results from Ipsos, Fox News, and Pew Research Center, which showed negative net favorability ratings for Israel ranging from minus 10 to minus 23 percentage points. One poll indicated a dramatic 67-point drop in sympathy for Israel over eight years, from plus 51 to minus 16. He expressed particular concern over college graduates, with 62% favoring a reduction or cessation of military aid to Israel.
While acknowledging these polls reflect public sentiment rather than official U.S. policy shifts, Sherman voiced apprehension, following a conversation with the Israeli ambassador, that Israeli leadership might underestimate the potential consequences. He emphasized that the threat extends beyond the annual $3.8 billion in aid, potentially impacting Israel's access to American weaponry and U.S. diplomatic support on the international stage.
The congressman linked the negative shift in American attitudes to the policies of the current Israeli government. He criticized the Foreign Ministry's underfunding and the inclusion of National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir in the cabinet, calling Ben-Gvir's participation an "existential threat" that damages Israel's international standing. Sherman also urged Israeli authorities to address settler violence in the West Bank, warning that inaction could further fuel negative perceptions.
Sherman concluded by stressing Israel's reliance on international friendships and urged Israeli officials and voters to heed the changing public mood. His warning comes amid ongoing debates in the U.S. regarding military aid to Israel and Washington's broader Middle East policy.
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