### Shifts in US Conservative Support for Israel Amid Prolonged War
As the conflict between Israel and Gaza approaches its second year, with widespread images of hunger and destruction circulating online, there are growing signs of unease among some conservatives in the US over traditionally firm backing for Israel.
The US government continues to provide diplomatic and military assistance to Israel, recently withdrawing from peace talks it accused Hamas of undermining. In Congress, only two Republicans supported an amendment that sought to halt funding for Israeli missile defense.
Yet, the war’s prolonged toll and recent Israeli strikes on Christian sites have prompted rare criticism from conservative figures. Some right-wing commentators have softened their stance on Israel’s military actions, while the US ambassador to Israel—a staunch supporter of the country—publicly condemned settler violence in the West Bank. Divisions over foreign policy persist among supporters of former President Donald Trump.
These developments align with broader US sentiment. A recent survey showed a significant decline in American approval of Israel’s actions, most sharply among Democrats and independents. However, Republicans also showed reduced support, with only 52% now viewing Israel’s conduct as justified, down from 68% last year.
Reports of severe food shortages in Gaza may have influenced opinions. According to the UN, at least 147 people, including 88 children, have died from hunger, with nearly a third of the population enduring days without meals. Trump, during a visit to Britain, questioned Israeli claims that starvation was not occurring, stating, “That’s real starvation … I see it, and you can’t fake that.” His remarks coincided with a British tabloid’s front-page plea to halt the crisis.
Recent Israeli military strikes on Christian sites have further strained support. After an attack on Gaza’s only Catholic church, which killed three and wounded nine—including a priest—Trump reportedly expressed frustration in a call with Netanyahu. Days later, US Ambassador Mike Huckabee visited a West Bank town repeatedly targeted by settlers, condemning an arson attack near a historic church as “an act of terror” and demanding accountability. He did not directly blame Israeli authorities.
While skepticism toward US-Israel relations has existed among some right-wing factions, these developments mark a notable shift in discourse.
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