U.S. Conservative Support for Israel Wavers, Reports NPR
Recent trends show a significant shift in the attitudes of young conservatives towards Israel. Traditionally, evangelical Christians have been strong supporters of Israel, motivated by their faith. However, recent polling indicates that this support is waning, particularly among younger generations.
Shifting Conservative Views on Israel
Evangelicals, especially those under 50, are becoming increasingly skeptical of Israel. According to a Pew Research Center poll, negative views among conservatives in this age group rose from 35% to 50% over the past three years.
Influence of Conservative Leaders
- Tucker Carlson and Candace Owens have voiced critical opinions about Israel.
- Carlson argued that America gains nothing from its support for Israel.
- The appearance of figures like Nick Fuentes on Carlson’s show has sparked controversy.
The statements from these influencers are reshaping the dialogue around Israel on the right. Daniel Hummel, a historian, highlights that evangelical support has been the backbone of American political support for Israel, but this is changing.
The Importance of Evangelical Support
Christian support for Israel stems from biblical beliefs. Many evangelicals view their support as honoring divine promises to the Jewish people. This view emphasizes the importance of Israel’s existence as a fulfillment of prophecy.
Support for Israel has fluctuated since the nation’s founding in 1948. The growth of organizations like Christians United for Israel (CUFI) in the 2000s exemplifies this trend. CUFI advocates strongly for Israel’s interests and policies, especially regarding territory.
Recent Challenges and Changes
The ongoing war in Gaza has prompted reevaluations of support among evangelicals. Polling data from Shibley Telhami reveals that just 32% of evangelicals aged 18-34 sympathize with Israel in the current conflict. This figure has dropped more than 30 points compared to older generations.
As skepticism grows, some conservatives are increasingly calling into question the U.S. relationship with Israel. Figures like Stephen Bannon and Candace Owens have publically criticized Israeli actions. This movement reflects a broader desire among some conservatives for American isolationism.
Concerns About Antisemitism
Simultaneously, there has been a dangerous resurgence of antisemitic rhetoric associated with this shift. Some influencers use the situation in Gaza to promote long-held conspiracy theories about Jewish control in media and politics, which coincides with traditional antisemitism.
Hummel notes that the divide over Israel’s support is not solely political but also theological. Many critics from conservative circles do not share the evangelical perspective of a divine connection to Israel. This theological schism is fueling both criticism and verbal attacks.
The Future of U.S.-Israel Relations
The evolving attitudes among conservatives raise questions about the future of U.S.-Israel relations. Despite the sectarian divides, the Trump administration continues to maintain strong support for Israel. The longer-term impact of public opinion shifts on policy remains uncertain.
As young conservatives express growing skepticism, the importance of evangelical support for Israel may not be what it once was. Upcoming discussions and actions will likely shape the nature of American support for Israel moving forward.
