During a media appearance at Andrews Air Base on Wednesday, June 20, U.S. President Donald Trump claimed to have 99 percent support in Israel and joked about running for the country’s premiership.
Trump’s Bold Claims on Israeli Support
President Trump suggested he might pursue a political career in Israel after his presidency, citing an alleged 99 percent approval rating. He stated he might travel to Israel to run in a future election, claiming this figure was based on a poll he saw that morning.
Regarding Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump described him as a wartime leader who is being treated unfairly. Trump praised Netanyahu as a great person who would do whatever he is asked, emphasizing their strong rapport in the context of ongoing tensions with Iran.
Stalled Peace Efforts and Diplomatic Hurdles
A ceasefire in the conflict between the United States and Iran has been in effect since April 8. Negotiations regarding a permanent peace treaty have reached a stalemate, with both parties currently rejecting each other’s proposed terms for an agreement.
Declining Approval Ratings at Home
While the origin of Trump’s cited polling remains unclear, recent data indicates his domestic approval is falling. A New York Times poll from May 18 shows that nearly 60 percent of Americans believe he is not performing well as president.
Public disapproval extends to specific policy areas: 64 percent of respondents criticized his handling of the economy, 69 percent faulted him on the cost of living, while 65 percent and 62 percent expressed negative views on his policies regarding the wars in Iran and Palestine, respectively.
Shifting American Sympathies
Public sentiment within the United States is also shifting regarding the Middle East. A February Gallup poll indicated that 41 percent of Americans sympathize more with Palestinians, compared to 36 percent who favor Israelis.
While the results fall within a four-point margin of error, the trend marks a reversal from the previous year, when 46 percent of respondents favored Israel and 33 percent sympathized with Palestine.