Many American Jews Sharply Critical of Israel on Gaza, Washington Post Poll Finds

A Shift in Attitudes Within the American Jewish Community

In September 2025, The Washington Post published the results of a new poll surveying American Jews about Israel’s war in Gaza. The findings revealed a striking transformation in traditional attitudes: a large segment of the American Jewish population expressed sharp criticism of Israel’s handling of its military operations in Gaza — and even raised questions about potential war crimes or acts of genocide.

Background: Who Conducted the Poll and What It Found

The poll was conducted between September 2 and 9, 2025, on behalf of The Washington Post, targeting a representative sample of American Jews across age groups, education levels, and political affiliations.

Key Findings and Striking Statistics

61% of American Jews believe Israel has committed war crimes in Gaza.

68% gave Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a negative performance rating, with nearly half describing his leadership as “poor.”

Despite criticism, 76% of respondents still view Israel as vital to Jewish identity and Jewish security.

Jewish Republicans largely support Israel, while Jewish Democrats and independents show much stronger criticism.

91% blame Hamas for the continuation of the war, but 80% also hold Israel partly responsible, and 86% assign Netanyahu personal responsibility.

61% believe the United States bears some responsibility for the conflict as well.

These findings mark a major turning point within a community historically seen as one of Israel’s most consistent allies.

Why Is Criticism Growing Among American Jews?

To understand this profound shift, we must consider several overlapping factors shaping public opinion within the Jewish-American community.

. The Humanitarian Impact of the Gaza War

Even those who feel culturally tied to Israel find themselves reconsidering unconditional support in light of humanitarian suffering.

. The Younger Generation and Human Rights Awareness

. Academic and Cultural Discourse

. Frustration with Netanyahu’s Leadership and Far-Right Policies

The high percentage of respondents who rated his performance as “poor” reflects a deep disillusionment with Israel’s internal politics and external conduct.

. U.S. Foreign Policy and Political Polarization

Because the United States is Israel’s primary ally, many American Jews feel that U.S. support should come with ethical conditions — particularly concerning human rights and proportionality.

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Segmented Analysis: Generational and Political Differences

A. By Age

Younger Jews (18–34) are more critical of Israel and more likely to describe its actions as genocidal

Older generations maintain stronger emotional ties and traditional sympathy toward Israel, though criticism is rising even among seniors — particularly concerning civilian casualties and moral leadership.

B. By Political Affiliation

Republican Jews tend to support Israel, often citing national security and self-defense.

Democratic and independent Jews are more likely to express criticism, emphasizing human rights and diplomatic accountability.

C. By Education

Less-educated or more conservative respondents tend to remain supportive or avoid open criticism.

D. By Geography and Social Circles

Implications for U.S.–Israel Relations

The Washington Post poll not only reflects an internal divide within the Jewish community — it also has potential implications for bilateral relations and policymaking.

. Declining Popular Support for Israel Among Americans

A Pew Research Center study also shows that U.S. public opinion toward Israel is becoming increasingly critical, particularly among younger and liberal demographics.

This growing skepticism could pressure U.S. policymakers to reassess unconditional military and diplomatic support for Israel.

. Pressure Within the Democratic Party

Since a majority of American Jews lean Democratic, their internal divisions could influence party dynamics, pushing lawmakers to call for greater restraint or reduced military aid to Israel.

. Rethinking Israel’s Global Messaging

Faced with mounting criticism from both Jewish and non-Jewish Americans, Israel may need to reframe its international narrative, focusing on transparency, proportionality, and humanitarian values to maintain moral legitimacy.

. Changing Advocacy and Funding Dynamics

Pro-Palestinian advocacy groups may find new allies within segments of the Jewish community, reshaping the lobbying and funding landscape in Washington and beyond.

. Identity and Community Cohesion Challenges

Potential Limitations of the Poll

While the findings are revealing, some limitations must be acknowledged:

Related Studies and Surveys

According to Ynet Global, over half of American Jews believe Israel has committed war crimes, and about 40% label its actions as genocide.

A Pew Research poll (April 2025) found that 53% of Americans now view Israel unfavorably — up from 42% in 2022.

A Gallup poll (July 2025) revealed that support for Israel’s military operations had fallen to 32%, while 60% opposed them.

These statistics demonstrate a steady erosion of public sympathy for Israel across multiple demographics.

Recommendations and Future Outlook

. Encourage Honest Dialogue Within the Jewish Community

Open forums and intergenerational conversations can help bridge divides and promote understanding between traditionalists and progressives.

. Israel Must Renew Its Diplomatic Approach

To retain global and diaspora support, Israel needs to embrace transparency, accountability, and humanitarian sensitivity in its policies.

. Watch for Political Shifts

Analysts and policymakers should closely monitor how this divide influences U.S. foreign policy, defense budgets, and bipartisan relations in Congress.

. Media Should Balance Military and Humanitarian Narratives

Balanced reporting is crucial to ensure audiences understand both the security and humanitarian dimensions of the Gaza conflict.

. Jewish Organizations Should Reassess Advocacy Strategies

Institutions working in U.S. politics must adapt their outreach, ensuring all Jewish voices — including critical ones — are represented in policy debates.

This shift is not just a temporary response to a tragic war; it may signal a long-term transformation in how Jewish Americans define their connection to Israel and their role in shaping U.S. policy in the Middle East.