Israel Faces Growing US Alienation After Midterm Elections

Recent US midterm election results, which saw Democrats gain control of Congress, have sent a stark warning to Jerusalem. A significant and growing segment of the American public, extending beyond fringe elements, now questions the importance of US-Israel relations and blames Israel for negatively influencing Washington policymakers. This shift in public opinion is a cause for serious concern in Israel, as the US remains its most crucial strategic asset.

Vice President JD Vance attributed Republican losses in the midterms to the war in Iran, noting that polls revealed a worrying trend for Israel: former Donald Trump voters who switched to Democrats now desire a change in US-Israel relations. Vance suggested the next Israeli leader should focus on repairing ties not just with the US president but with the American people and the American Jewish community. Criticism of current Israeli policy, particularly towards Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, is intensifying, with one CNN source stating Netanyahu has done "terrible damage" to Jews worldwide by isolating Israel.

Public opinion polls reflect this negative trend, with over 50% of US Democrats believing Israel commits genocide, and over 50% of Republicans under 50 viewing Israel unfavorably. Net favorability ratings for Israel have entered negative territory across all demographics. Data shows a consistent decline in Israel's standing over the past five years, accelerating during the recent conflict. In 2021, 75% of Americans held a positive view of Israel, a figure that dropped to 46% by 2026.

Experts suggest a recalibration of the US-Israel relationship is necessary, potentially moving away from a model of dependency on US military aid. Instead, the focus could shift to a technological alliance, leveraging Israel's strengths in areas like AI, quantum computing, and semiconductors, which are critical to US global competition with China. This approach mirrors Japan's post-WWII strategy, which rebuilt its relationship with the US through economic and technological cooperation, leading to a significant increase in American public support.

Beyond the political and public opinion shifts, actions on the ground, such as reported "Jewish terrorism" in the West Bank and images from Gaza, are causing unprecedented damage. These issues are frequently raised by members of Congress, who question the rationale for funding such activities. Experts emphasize the need to address these concerns, alongside promoting a political horizon and de-escalating tensions, to counter anti-Israel campaigns and bolster support among the crucial centrist bloc in Congress.