US Poll Shows Declining Support for Israel Amid Gaza Conflict, With 30% Accusing Israel of Genocide

A recent AP-NORC poll reveals a significant shift in American public opinion regarding Israel amid the ongoing Gaza conflict. Approximately one-third of American adults, including about half of Democratic respondents, believe Israel has committed genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, an accusation denied by Israel and the US government. Among American Jewish adults, 30% share this view, while 49% reject it. The poll highlights a marked erosion of bipartisan support for Israel, a longtime US ally.

The survey also found that many Americans remain uncertain about the justification of Israel's military response to Hamas's October 7 attack and subsequent actions. While most who expressed an opinion deemed Israel's initial response justified, a majority viewed ongoing military operations as unjustified. Among Jewish adults, 75% supported the initial response, but only about 40% approved of continued actions.

Partisan divides are evident, with 58% of Democrats now saying the US supports Israel "too much," up from 45% in January 2024, and 62% believing the US does not support Palestinians enough. Younger Democrats are more likely to feel the US under-supports Palestinians, though older Democrats are closing this gap. Conversely, 60% of Republicans consider US support for Israel appropriate, with only 13% labeling Israeli actions as genocide. Younger Republicans are more critical, with 20% under 45 endorsing the genocide claim.

The poll also examined opinions on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and New York City Mayor Eric Adams, a vocal Israel critic. Netanyahu holds a negative image among 38% of Americans and 60% of Jewish adults, while Adams is viewed more favorably by Jewish Democrats, with 44% expressing a positive opinion. Overall, the data indicate a complex and shifting landscape of American attitudes toward Israel, influenced by the Gaza war and domestic political dynamics.