Global Support for Israel Drops Amid Gaza War

Recent surveys reveal a sharp decline in public support for Israel across Western Europe following the Gaza war, with sympathy for Israel dropping to its lowest since 2016 and particularly negative assessments in France, Germany, and Denmark. Majorities in these and other European countries view Israel’s military response as disproportionate, and many believe Israel should not have initiated the conflict. A global Pew Research Center survey indicates that international perceptions of Israel and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are largely negative, with most Israelis believing their country lacks international respect. Inside Israel, skepticism about the potential for lasting peace with Palestinians is on the rise, with doubts about both sides' commitment to peace and the feasibility of a two-state solution. These findings reflect increasing international and domestic pessimism towards Israel’s policies and its prospects for peace.