In a recent CNN poll conducted by SSRS, a notable shift in public sentiment regarding Israeli actions in Gaza has been observed among Americans. The survey indicates a growing skepticism towards Israel’s military actions and a rising sentiment that the United States should reevaluate its military aid to Israel. Only 23% of respondents believe that Israel’s actions are fully justified, representing a significant 27-point decline from a prior poll taken shortly after Hamas launched its attacks on October 7, 2023.
The poll results reveal a marked decline in support for Israeli actions across political lines, although the decrease is particularly pronounced among Democrats and independents. For instance, the number of Democrats deeming Israel’s military actions justified plummeted from 38% to just 7%, while among independents, it fell from 45% to 14%. Meanwhile, support among Republican respondents decreased from 68% to 52%.
Moreover, the perspective of Americans towards military aid to Israel has undergone significant changes. Since March 2023, the portion of Democratic and Democratic-leaning individuals who believe the U.S. provides too much military support to Israel has surged from 44% to 59%. In contrast, Republican-aligned adults have maintained a more stable view, with 24% expressing similar sentiments. Notably, young Democrats—those under 35—demonstrate a strong opposition to military aid, with 72% arguing that the U.S. provides excessive support. Among these, a striking 43% call for an absolute cessation of aid, while another 29% advocate for a reduction in the assistance provided.
Younger Americans, across political affiliations, exhibit pronounced skepticism towards Israel, with only one in ten individuals under 35 affirming that Israel’s military actions are fully justified. A third of younger respondents argue that these actions are entirely unjustified, and 61% deem the military force used by Israel as excessive. Additionally, over half (56%) of this demographic believe the U.S. has overextended its support for Israel in its conflict with Hamas.
The results indicate that people of color also share similar sentiments, with just 13% stating that Israel’s actions are fully justified and almost 60% contending that Israel utilized excessive military force during the ongoing conflict. When asked about the broader implications of U.S. military support to Israel, 42% of Americans now feel that the U.S. is doing too much to aid Israel in its battle against Hamas, up from 34% in March and 33% in January 2024. Among the population that thinks the U.S. is overcommitted, 22% are in favor of reducing military aid, while 21% advocate for a complete halt.
Furthermore, the poll unveils a broader reluctance among Americans to engage in international issues, with a majority (56%) indicating that the U.S. should refrain from taking a leadership role in resolving international conflicts. This is contrasted with March’s results, where the public opinion was more evenly divided. The shift in Democratic perspectives highlights that many now prefer less proactive involvement in global affairs compared to earlier sentiments recorded.
In addition, the poll addressed the perception of former President Donald Trump’s handling of foreign affairs. An overwhelming 60% of Americans disapprove of his approach, with only 40% offering approval. The response to Trump’s actions in recent military strikes in Iran has also intensified public scrutiny regarding his competence as commander-in-chief. These sentiments collectively contribute to a larger narrative questioning the efficacy and direction of U.S. foreign policy amidst changing global dynamics and domestic priorities.
Overall, this polling data encapsulates a significant transformation in American attitudes toward Israel, military aid, and broader U.S. involvement in international affairs. These evolving perceptions reflect a more cautious and critical approach among the electorate, highlighting generational divides and shifting political paradigms that could influence future policy decisions. As the political landscape continues to evolve, the implications of such a shift may resonate deeply within the fabric of U.S. foreign policy and its relationships worldwide.
