A new poll shows that 66% of Israelis favor Donald Trump over Kamala Harris, suggesting that the Harris campaign’s strategy of comparing Trump to “Hitler” may be falling flat internationally, especially in pro-Israel circles.
As the Harris campaign continues its focus on labeling former President Donald Trump as “Hitler,” a new poll suggests the strategy may be backfiring, at least in Israel. A survey by Israel’s Channel 12 found that 66% of Israelis favor Trump over Vice President Kamala Harris in the upcoming U.S. presidential election, with only 17% supporting Harris. The poll reflects a sharp divide, with Trump’s robust support among Israelis contrasting with his lukewarm approval from American Jews, who often prioritize social issues over foreign policy.
While Biden initially enjoyed higher approval in Israel, especially following the U.S.'s backing after the October 7, 2023, Hamas massacre, recent U.S. attempts to restrain Israeli military actions appear to have strained relations. Harris’s vocal support for these policies, including her threat of “consequences” if Israel entered Rafah to pursue Hamas leaders, has amplified her unpopularity. Israel’s defiance led to the recent killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar in Rafah, with Trump later remarking that Israel often finds success by ignoring the Biden-Harris administration’s cautions.
Trump’s legacy of support for Israel, including relocating the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem and recognizing Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, has bolstered his standing as one of Israel’s most favorable American leaders since Harry Truman. With both religious and secular Israelis primarily concerned about national security, the poll signals that Harris’s alignment with Biden’s more cautious Middle East policies could be an electoral liability, even as her campaign leans into its anti-Trump narrative.
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