Poll: Majority of Americans Disapprove of Israeli Military Actions in Gaza
Republicans in the US remain the most supportive group of Israel's actions in Gaza, but their approval has declined from 71% to 64%.
People, holding banners and Palestinian flags, gather at Washington Square Park to protest against Israeli attacks on Gaza in New York, United States on March 02, 2024. Photo by Anadolu Images.
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recent Gallup poll has unveiled a significant shift in American public opinion regarding Israel’s military actions in the Gaza Strip. According to the survey conducted from March 1 to March 20, 55% of Americans now disapprove of Israel’s military response in Gaza, marking a notable decline from 50% approval in November.
The poll further reveals that a substantial majority of US adults, approximately 74%, are closely monitoring news related to the Israeli-Hamas conflict, reflecting consistent attention to the ongoing situation. Among those surveyed, one-third expressed following the developments in Gaza “very closely.”
Notably, all major political parties in the United States have shown decreased support for Israel’s actions in Gaza compared to the previous poll in November. Independents have shifted from a divided stance to outright opposition, with 18% approving and 75% disapproving of Israel’s military efforts.
Democrats hardened their stance
Similarly, Democrats, who were predominantly opposed in November, have hardened their stance, with 18% approval and 75% disapproval. Republicans remain the most supportive group, but their approval has declined from 71% to 64%.
The findings of the Gallup poll come amidst international efforts to address the escalating conflict in Gaza. Earlier this week, the UN Security Council passed a resolution urging an immediate ceasefire in Gaza during the month of Ramadan.
The United States notably abstained from the vote, refraining from exercising its veto power, which was perceived as a departure from its staunch support for Israel. This decision came in the wake of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s cancellation of a visit by his senior advisers to the White House.
Deadly offensive on Gaza
The ongoing genocide in Gaza dates back to a cross-border attack by Hamas on October 7, which resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 Israelis. In response, Israel launched a deadly military offensive in the Gaza Strip. Since then, more than 32,200 Palestinians have been killed, with over 74,500 injured and significant infrastructure damage.
The conflict has led to the internal displacement of 85% of Gaza’s population, exacerbating shortages of essential resources such as food, water, and medicine.
As the humanitarian crisis in Gaza deepens and public opinion in the United States continues to shift, pressure mounts on global leaders to pursue diplomatic solutions and alleviate the suffering of civilians caught in the crossfire.
Source: Anadolu Agency
