President Donald Trump recently called for Israel to conclude its ongoing conflict in Gaza, expressing concern over the nation’s dwindling support within the United States. In a pointed interview with Daily Caller correspondent Reagan Reese, he stated, “They may be winning the war, but they’re not winning the world of public relations… and it is hurting them.” This statement underscores a growing divide in American public opinion regarding Israel, particularly among younger conservatives.
During the interview, Reese noted troubling statistics from Pew Research indicating an increase in negative views toward Israel, with unfavorable opinions rising from 42% to 53% among American adults between March 2022 and March 2025. The shift is particularly pronounced among younger Republicans, with half now holding unfavorable views, compared to 35% just three years earlier. This trend alarms Trump, who remarked, “There was a time where you couldn’t speak bad… if you wanted to be a politician, you couldn’t speak badly.” He attributed this change partly to the influence of progressive politicians and activists.
Trump’s commentary highlights a broader fear that a coalition of America First and noninterventionist Republicans is becoming increasingly skeptical of unwavering support for Israel. This growing faction of the GOP, especially among younger members, questions the financial and military aid provided by the U.S. to Israel. The Israeli government is evidently aware of this shift. The Israeli Foreign Ministry recently sponsored a tour for 16 conservative influencers aimed at improving Israel’s image among young American conservatives. According to Haaretz, this represents a strategic pivot, recognizing that traditional outreach methods are insufficient in shaping public opinion today.
The negative portrayal of Israel’s military actions in Gaza—amid accusations of human rights violations—has negatively impacted its reputation not just with liberals but, crucially, with some conservatives as well. Trump reiterated the need for Israel to end the conflict promptly, stating, “They’re gonna have to get that war over with… But it is hurting Israel. There’s no question about it.” His emphasis on the dual aspects of military success versus public perception reveals a concern that goes beyond military engagements, focusing instead on Israel’s image on the global stage.
The new dynamics in public opinion reflect a significant departure from previously established norms of bipartisan support for Israel, which Trump indicated was once undisputed: “Israel was the strongest lobby I’ve ever seen… They had total control over Congress, and now they don’t.” The former president’s reflections are poignant, conveying surprise at how dramatically perceptions have shifted in a relatively short span.
Amid this backdrop, Reese’s mention of her recent visit to Israel and Gaza added a personal dimension to the conversation. She described witnessing the conflict firsthand, emphasizing, “I understand…” when Trump expressed the severity of the situation. This personal engagement adds weight to the dialogue, highlighting that understanding the realities on the ground is critical for informed public opinion.
As the complexities of international support and public opinion continue to evolve, Trump’s remarks illustrate a crucial turning point in U.S.-Israel relations. The implications are profound, as public relations challenges could force Israel to re-evaluate its strategies both in warfare and diplomacy. The intersection of military success and public perception will likely remain a crucial aspect of discussions surrounding Israel’s future role in American politics and foreign policy.
Through this lens, Trump’s observations provide not just a critique but also a call for introspection regarding how nations engage with the complex web of public sentiment and political support. Israel’s journey through the shifting perceptions on the American front reflects broader changes in both domestic and foreign policy landscapes that are increasingly influenced by younger generations.
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