Historic Shift in U.S. Public Opinion on Israel-Gaza Conflict
A stunning reversal in American sentiment has emerged nearly two years after the Oct. 7, 2023 Hamas attacks: for the first time in decades, a majority of U.S. voters now oppose sending additional military and economic aid to Israel, according to a new New York Times/Siena University poll released September 29, 2025 .
Key Poll Findings
- 35% of Americans now side with Palestinians, compared to 34% with Israelis—the first time pro-Palestinian sentiment has edged ahead since polling began in 1998.
- 58% oppose further U.S. military aid to Israel, including 42% of Republicans and 71% of Democrats.
- 40% believe Israel is intentionally killing civilians in Gaza—a sharp rise from 22% in December 2023.
- Only 30% say Israel is taking enough precautions to avoid civilian harm.
Public Opinion Shift: December 2023 vs. September 2025
| Question | Dec. 2023 | Sept. 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Sympathize more with Israelis | 47% | 34% |
| Sympathize more with Palestinians | 20% | 35% |
| Believe Israel is intentionally killing civilians | 22% | 40% |
| Support additional U.S. military aid to Israel | 59% | 42% |
Why the Dramatic Change?
Analysts point to mounting media coverage of Gaza’s humanitarian crisis, rising civilian death tolls (estimated at over 40,000 by September 2025), and growing skepticism about Israel’s military conduct. The poll also reveals deep generational divides:
- 18–34-year-olds: 52% side with Palestinians
- 65+ voters: 51% still side with Israel
“This isn’t just a policy shift—it’s a moral reckoning,” said Dr. Elena Martinez, a political sociologist at Georgetown University. “Younger Americans are increasingly viewing the conflict through a human rights lens.”
Political Implications
The findings could pressure the Biden administration and Congress to reconsider unconditional support for Israel, especially as the 2026 midterms approach. Progressive lawmakers have already called for aid conditions tied to humanitarian access and civilian protection.
[INTERNAL_LINK:U.S.-Israel Relations] | [INTERNAL_LINK:Gaza War Public Opinion]
