AP-NORC Center poll reveals changing attitudes in the United States. About half of U.S. adults now say Israel has gone too far in its military operations in Gaza. That marks a clear increase from 40 percent in late 2023. Americans from across political lines show more concern than before. The poll points to rising unease over civilian suffering, destruction, and whether current U.S. policies are fair or balanced.
How American public opinion on Israel’s actions in Gaza has shifted significantly
After Hamas’s attack, many Americans strongly supported Israel’s right to respond. However, as the war dragged on and reports of civilian deaths, mass displacement, and infrastructure damage became more frequent, public opinion shifted.
The poll shows that now, about 50 percent of U.S. adults believe Israel has overstepped. Among Democrats, support for that view jumped from 58 percent in November 2023 to nearly 70 percent. Independents also moved toward concern, and even among Republicans, though more modestly, opinion trended in the same direction.
Several factors appear to drive the shift. First, stories about the humanitarian toll displaced families, destroyed homes, overwhelmed hospitals have gained more media attention. For many, seeing civilian suffering changes perceptions, even among people who previously supported Israel’s security claims.
Differences among political groups in believing Israel overstepped
The poll finds that Democrats show the biggest change in opinion. Nearly 70 percent of Democrats now believe Israel has gone too far. Among independents, roughly half share that view. Among Republicans, the number remains lower but has risen from about 18 percent to around 24 percent.
These differences reflect how political affiliation shapes how people view reports, media framing, and foreign policy. For many Democrats, moral and humanitarian concerns are carrying more weight. Republicans are more likely to emphasize Israel’s right to defend itself, especially in light of threats from Hamas. Still, the rise in concern among Republicans signals that the issue is crossing traditional party lines more than before.
What this growing concern means for U.S. policy toward Israel
Because public opinion matters in democratic politics, this shift puts pressure on U.S. leaders. Politicians may face growing demands to adjust U.S. military aid, diplomatic support, or conditions tied to aid—especially to ensure that civilian harm is minimized.
Some Americans want stronger oversight, greater transparency about how U.S. funds are used, and more insistence on ceasefires or humanitarian pauses. Others call for the U.S. to shift more focus toward supporting displaced civilians and reconstruction. Meanwhile, support for negotiation or diplomatic solutions gains appeal compared to purely military responses.
Challenges in turning public opinion into policy changes
Although many Americans believe Israel has gone too far, translating that into policy faces challenges. First, U.S. foreign policy is shaped by many forces: geopolitical strategy, alliances, national security arguments, and institutional inertia. Changing course isn’t simple.
Congress includes strong support for Israel, especially among some Republicans. Defense and security concerns remain persuasive arguments in Washington. Third, media coverage varies: what people see about the war depends heavily on outlets, framing, and what gets amplified. Mis-information or selective reporting can muddy understanding and reduce urgency.
Finally, there is risk in polarization. As more people believe Israel overstepped, debate intensifies over not only what is fair, but who is responsible. Partisan divides may increase, making consensus harder.
Rising Number of Americans seeking asylum in Canada