More Americans believe Israel's military offensive in Gaza is excessive, the “Associated Press“ reported, citing an AP-NORC survey at the University of Chicago. The survey comes amid heightened international concerns about the humanitarian situation in the area, BTA reports.
About half of Americans say Israel's actions have “gone too far” - an increase from November 2023, when 40% expressed such an opinion. The survey was conducted shortly after the “Hamas“ attack on October 7, 2023, in which about 1,200 people died and about 250 were taken hostage.
Changing attitudes
Despite criticism of Israel, Americans - especially Republicans - are less likely to consider ceasefire negotiations a top priority for the government. This contrasts with earlier positions when Washington was actively negotiating a ceasefire.
The survey shows an increase in people from both major parties who consider Israel's actions excessive: 70% of Democrats (up from 58% in November 2023),
about half of independents (up from 40%),
24% of Republicans (up from 18%).
Humanitarian Aid and Foreign Policy
Now, 45% of Americans consider it “extremely“ or “very” important to provide humanitarian aid to the Palestinians - up from 41% in March. Approval of President Donald Trump's handling of the situation has fallen from 44% in March to 37% now.
At the same time, about 30% of Americans emphasize the importance of negotiations to create an independent Palestinian state. This view is supported by about half of Democrats, but only 14% of Republicans.
Last week, the UN General Assembly voted overwhelmingly in favor of a "two-state" solution and called on Israel to support the creation of a Palestinian state. Israel and the United States were among the ten countries that voted against the resolution.
Support for military aid declines
Support for military aid to Israel is waning significantly. Only 20% of Americans believe it is "extremely" or "very" important for the United States to support the Israeli military - down from 36% at the start of the war.