Netanyahu says social media is driving decline in US support for Israel

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has acknowledged that public support for Israel has declined in the United States, attributing the shift largely to the influence of social media and online misinformation. His remarks came during an interview with ABC News, where he also discussed the war in Gaza, Iran’s nuclear programme, and Israel’s relationship with the United States.

Netanyahu admitted that attitudes toward Israel among Americans have changed in recent years and said the trend was a matter of concern. He argued that the rapid growth of social media platforms, along with the use of coordinated online campaigns and automated accounts, has shaped public opinion against Israel. According to him, misleading portrayals of the conflict in Gaza have contributed significantly to the fall in support.

Recent surveys suggest that American views of Israel have become increasingly critical. A July poll by the Pew Research Center found that unfavorable opinions of the Israeli people have risen compared with previous years, while support for the Israeli government has also declined. The findings reflect growing concern among Americans over Israel’s military operations in Gaza and the humanitarian impact of the conflict.

During the interview, Netanyahu said he wanted Israel to continue receiving support from both major political parties in the United States. He described bipartisan backing as an important part of Israel’s national security and argued that the debate surrounding Israel extends beyond the Middle East. He claimed that those who oppose Israel often also oppose American interests and values.

The Israeli leader also discussed Iran, saying Israel and US President Donald Trump share the same objective of preventing Tehran from developing nuclear weapons. He said Israel would support any approach that successfully ends Iran’s nuclear programme, whether through diplomacy, economic sanctions, or military action. However, he stressed that decisions regarding American policy ultimately rest with the US president.

Netanyahu accused Iran of repeatedly acting in bad faith during previous negotiations, claiming its leaders have used talks to delay action while continuing their nuclear ambitions. Iran has previously rejected such accusations and argued that inconsistent policies and broken commitments by the United States have undermined diplomatic efforts.

He also warned Iran against carrying out any future attacks on Israel, saying such actions would be met with a strong military response. Although he believes Iran’s leadership has become weaker in recent years, Netanyahu said the current government remains in power and predicted that it could eventually collapse.

Addressing his relationship with President Trump, Netanyahu dismissed suggestions that either leader was directing the other. He described the two countries as close allies and said the United States remains the senior partner while Israel continues to work closely with Washington on security matters.

The prime minister also rejected reports claiming he had underestimated the consequences or duration of military action against Iran. He insisted those reports misrepresented his earlier assessments and said President Trump independently viewed Iran’s nuclear ambitions as a serious threat.

Netanyahu strongly denied allegations that Israel had committed war crimes or genocide during its military campaign in Gaza. He argued that Israeli forces had taken steps to reduce civilian casualties by issuing warnings through phone calls, text messages, and leaflets urging people to leave areas of fighting. He also accused Hamas of preventing civilians from evacuating.

The Israeli leader again ruled out the creation of an independent Palestinian state, arguing that it would pose a security threat to Israel. His comments come despite ongoing international calls for a two state solution.

The conflict remains under intense international scrutiny. In November 2024, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant over allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity linked to the Gaza conflict. Israel rejects the accusations, while military operations in the territory have continued despite a ceasefire agreement reached in October 2025.