Trump Receives 73% Approval Rating From Israel, While US Approval Ratings Dips Low

Recent polls show that Israeli public opinion showers Donald Trump with praise, while his approval ratings in the US sink to historic lows, particularly over his handling of immigration. The divide highlights a complex geopolitical picture and growing domestic dissatisfaction.

Israelis back Trump's strong support

A recent poll by the Jewish People Policy Institute (JPPI) reveals an overwhelming majority of Israelis view Trump favourably. Nearly three-quarters (73%) consider him a better-than-average U.S. president when it comes to Israel's interests. Close to half (49%) go further, naming him one of the best presidents in American history for Israel.

The poll was conducted just before Trump's upcoming meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Many Israelis believe Trump's policies, especially his recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital and his unwavering support during conflicts, played a pivotal role.

Political divides in Israel are stark. Among the right-wing electorate, 92% see Trump's presidency as above average, with 73% calling him one of the best ever for Israel. Conversely, only 34% of left-leaning Israelis hold positive views. The gap underscores how much political loyalty influences perceptions.

Interestingly, Israelis' view of America's perception of Trump is more nuanced. Nearly half believe that even Americans would rate him as above average or among the best presidents. Yet, 20% think he'll be remembered as one of the worst, and another 20% see him as just below average.

In contrast, a US poll by Siena College and the New York Times indicates only 19% of Americans see Trump as one of the best presidents, while 42% think he'll be remembered as one of the worst. The American view remains sharply divided and more critical.

Israel's perception of victory in Gaza

The JPPI poll also sheds light on Israel's view of its recent military engagement with Hamas. More than half (54%) believe Israel emerged victorious in the Gaza conflict, a sentiment stronger among Jewish respondents (60%) than Arab respondents (25%).

Right-wing Israelis are especially confident. About 83% of those on the political right believe Israel defeated Hamas. On the other hand, 63% of left-wing respondents see the outcome as a failure or incomplete.

Voters' opinions also split along party lines. Over half of Likud supporters (51%) and Religious Zionism voters (69%) think the victory wasn't sufficient. Meanwhile, 52% of Democratic voters feel Israel lost or nearly lost the war.

US approval dips, immigration support crumbles

While Israelis praise Trump, his standing in the US takes a nosedive. The NBC News Decision Desk Poll shows his approval rating has fallen to 39%, the lowest in his second term. His overall approval on handling immigration has also tanked.

Once a pillar of his campaign, support for Trump's immigration policies has plummeted. The poll reveals 49% of Americans strongly disapprove of how he's managing border security, a jump from 34% in April.

The deaths of Americans Alex Pretti and Renee Good during immigration raids in Minnesota appear to have been a tipping point.

'In these elections that are won on the margins, particularly in the swing states, independents are a really critical group,' said Marc Trussler, an NBC analyst. 'To see them shift so heavily on one of the president's key priorities is really telling.'

Most respondents, around 62%, distrust the fairness of federal investigations into the shootings. Videos circulating on social media showing aggressive tactics have fuelled public outrage. The incidents have cast a shadow over Trump's tougher immigration stance.

Public opinion also shows a strong desire for reform.

Nearly 75% say ICE should be either reformed or abolished altogether. Most believe immigration enforcement has gone too far, with 63% disapproving of officers wearing masks during raids. Opinions are split on local cooperation with federal deportation efforts, but nearly half support some level of cooperation.

The fallout has fractured the Republican base.

While some traditional Republicans remain supportive, many MAGA supporters are less so. Only 46% of MAGA Republicans support investigations into the shootings, compared to 59% of traditional Republicans. Confidence in the transparency of probes also varies: 73% of traditional Republicans believe investigations will be fair, versus 59% of MAGA supporters.

Uncertain for Trump in 2026, will Democrats take the lead?

As midterm elections loom, the political landscape looks increasingly uncertain for Trump. His approval ratings continue to slide, and his support on key issues like immigration is waning. The stark contrast between the Israeli praise and American discontent paints a picture of a leader whose international standing may be somewhat insulated by specific alliances but is increasingly challenged at home.

The divisions within the US over immigration, law enforcement, and trust in investigations suggest a nation grappling with its identity and priorities. Meanwhile, Israel's strong backing for Trump reinforces the special bond many Israelis feel, rooted in shared interests and diplomatic support.

One thing remains clear. The world watches as Trump navigates these turbulent waters, balancing praise abroad with declining support at home.