Key facts
- Israel and its allies are actively countering a surge of bipartisan criticism in the United States.
- Over 100 House Democrats voted for a measure to end aid to Israel.
- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is planning a visit to the U.S.
- Public support for Israel is declining among both Democrats and Republicans.
- Israel's ambassador to the U.S., Yechiel Leiter, is actively engaging with lawmakers and using social media to defend the country.
Israel and its allies are engaged in a concerted effort to counter a significant increase in bipartisan criticism within the United States, aiming to repair the Jewish state's reputation. This push comes amid growing U.S. frustration over Israeli actions concerning Gaza, Iran, and the West Bank, with the relationship reportedly near a breaking point.
Organizations supporting Israel are employing various tactics, including direct outreach to lawmakers, targeted campaign spending, and public relations campaigns. The Orthodox Union Advocacy Center is encouraging members to thank Democrats who voted against cutting aid to Israel, while the American Jewish Committee is increasing engagement with U.S. legislators. Israeli officials, including Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar and Ambassador to the U.S. Yechiel Leiter, are making visible efforts in Washington to defend Israel's position and counter allegations.
Recent events have intensified the scrutiny, with over 100 House Democrats voting for a measure to end aid to Israel and Vice President JD Vance accusing Israel of an online offensive. U.S. Representative Ro Khanna also accused Israeli settlers and soldiers of detaining him during a West Bank visit, drawing a strong rebuttal from Ambassador Leiter. Former U.S. officials suggest that the core issue lies in Israel's conduct rather than lobbying efforts.
Public opinion polls reflect a decline in support for Israel among both Democrats and Republicans, particularly among younger Americans who show more sympathy for Palestinians. This shift is prompting politicians to align with their constituents' views. Upcoming elections in both Israel and the U.S. add a layer of complexity to messaging strategies and diplomatic efforts.
Pro-Israel groups like the American Israel Public Affairs Committee and the Republican Jewish Coalition have been actively targeting candidates through campaign spending. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to visit the U.S. soon, potentially coinciding with a memorial service for the late Sen. Lindsey Graham. The Republican Jewish Coalition is also planning a leadership summit to address concerns among some Republicans regarding U.S.-Israeli ties.
The White House has affirmed a strong relationship with Israel and close coordination with its partners. However, some pro-Israel groups, like Democratic Majority for Israel, are adopting a critical stance, urging Israel to address concerns about settlement expansion, violence against Palestinians, and the devastation in Gaza, viewing the recent House vote as a wake-up call. Reports also suggest Israel has been involved in an influence operation targeting the MAGA base, an operation that Ambassador Leiter has sought to counter with public materials refuting allegations regarding actions in Gaza.