US public opinion on Israel raises questions over Washington’s Iran and Ukraine strategy

Summary

•   WASHINGTON/ISLAMABAD: A sharp shift in American public opinion toward Israel is raising questions about the future of Washington’s Middle East policy, particularly as the United States continues its confrontation with Iran and reassesses its military commitments abroad.
• Marquette Law School polling in September found 29% of Americans viewed Israel favorably, while 59% held an unfavorable opinion.
• The Iraq withdrawal may ultimately prove to be a limited policy adjustment—or the beginning of a broader rethink involving Iran, Ukraine and US military commitments abroad.

AI Generated Summary

WASHINGTON/ISLAMABAD: A sharp shift in American public opinion toward Israel is raising questions about the future of Washington’s Middle East policy, particularly as the United States continues its confrontation with Iran and reassesses its military commitments abroad.

Recent polling cited in the original analysis indicates that a growing share of Americans now hold an unfavorable view of Israel. Pew Research reported that 60% of Americans viewed Israel unfavorably in 2026, compared with 37% who expressed a favorable opinion. Among younger Americans, opposition was significantly higher, with 74% of respondents aged 18 to 34 holding an unfavorable view.

Other surveys have also recorded declining support. Marquette Law School polling in September found 29% of Americans viewed Israel favorably, while 59% held an unfavorable opinion. The same survey found that 55% believed the United States was providing too much military assistance to Israel.