Many Americans believe that, if they want the country to thrive, understanding the significance of Israel as a key ally is crucial. Recent data from Pew Research indicates that 56% of Americans currently support Israel, up from earlier this year. This shift follows a notable decline in sentiment, coinciding with a prolonged military offensive by Israel against Hamas in Gaza, which sparked intense propaganda—particularly among younger Americans—about the crisis in the region. The resulting “information warfare” led to a dip in support for Israel, which had reached historic lows. Although support has recently rebounded, its decline should concern those who view international affairs realistically.
Over the past two years, since Hamas’s invasion and subsequent attacks, American backing for Israel saw a drop. This decline happened amidst ongoing conflicts, including fierce battles on multiple fronts. Generally, support for Israel has historically been high, with many Americans expressing a preference for Israel over the Palestinians—averaging 59% support from 2000 to 2019.
By 2024, before the escalation on October 7, sympathy for Israel had decreased somewhat, while interest in the Palestinian perspective increased. Two years of conflict, showcasing images of devastated Gaza and Israeli military action, fed into the narrative of war, resulting in support levels plummeting below 40% at one point.
Recently, however, there has been a recovery in support for Israel, which is undoubtedly beneficial for both the United States and Israel, as well as for global stability.
The rationale for this is rather straightforward. It is essential for free nations to counterbalance the influence of authoritarian regimes worldwide to safeguard their own freedoms.
There are varied reasons some Americans advocate for Israel—from religious affiliations to a shared history framed through a Judeo-Christian lens. Yet, fundamentally, all Americans should recognize support for Israel as a matter of national security. Ultimately, Israel is key to America’s ongoing strength internationally.
The U.S. leads the Western alliance, comprised of nations whose governments adhere to democratic principles. While some countries bordering the West may not fully embody these ideals, they share some qualities or aspire toward them, forming alliances with the U.S. As tensions rise between authoritarian regimes and democracies, Western-aligned states are generally favored over those allied with nations like China.
Only a handful of countries exist outside these two blocks. The once-prominent “non-aligned” nations have diminished since China, under Xi Jinping, moved away from any pretense of a rules-based international order. The collective of nations under authoritarian rule has grown notably powerful.
This disregard for established norms tends to align with anti-Western sentiments, which explains Russia’s actions in Ukraine and Iran’s aggressive stance toward Israel. Parallelly, long-standing anti-Western regimes continue to falter yet remain dangerous. Recent events illustrate these complexities, such as an oil tanker incident involving UAE interests.
Among America’s allies, despite occasional disagreements, Israel arguably stands out as the most vital partner. It boasts significant military capabilities and a commitment to justice, maintaining a robust collaboration with the United States.
Historically, Britain held a similar position in the 20th century, but that dynamic seems to have shifted toward Israel, likely for many years to come.
Countries in Europe face various challenges ahead, with some like Poland showing promise while others appear directionless. Nonetheless, many European nations still rely on American support to counter threats from Russia and, by extension, from China.
In the Pacific, allies like Australia, Japan, and Taiwan play a crucial role in addressing China’s ambitions. To uphold the West’s influence in that region, as well as in the Middle East, Israel remains indispensable. The technologies developed there, such as missile defense systems, are critical for protecting against advanced weaponry used by adversaries. Additionally, Israel’s intelligence capabilities offer invaluable resources to strengthen partnerships.
The ongoing propaganda against Israel has caused much harm. It’s misguided to label oneself “anti-Zionist,” given Israel’s semblance to other nations that emerged from colonial struggles. Such stances, often fueled by misconceptions or anti-Semitism, ignore historical facts and submit to harmful ideologies.
The founder of Zionism, Theodore Herzl, expressed a palpable pessimism about anti-Semitism, predicting its resurgence in any society. His insights, discussed with noted Israeli intellectuals, underline the complexities surrounding Jewish identity and nationalism. Herzl envisioned a future where Israel could significantly influence the West, shaping America’s role as intertwined with Israeli security and sovereignty.
