Trump’s Growing Discontent with Netanyahu Sharpens Republican Divide Over Middle East Policy

Republican support for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has dropped sharply over the past month as President Donald Trump has publicly criticized Israel’s recent military actions and sought to distance his administration from renewed regional conflict, according to a new poll.

A survey of 1,059 registered voters found that 47% of Republicans now hold a favorable view of Netanyahu, down from 66% in May. The Israeli leader’s net favorability among Republicans was cut in half during the same period.

The decline comes after weeks of public disagreements between Trump and Netanyahu over Israel’s military operations in Lebanon and the collapse of a U.S.-brokered ceasefire framework with Iran.

Reports indicate that Trump privately rebuked Netanyahu regarding Israeli strikes in Lebanon while his administration pursued diplomacy with Tehran. Vice President JD Vance has also warned Israel against alienating its most important ally.

Prominent figures in the MAGA movement, including former Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) and commentator Tucker Carlson, have argued that the United States should avoid being drawn into another Middle East conflict.

Netanyahu maintained that his relationship with Trump remains strong. Speaking Monday at a press event, he dismissed reports of a rift, stating: “He said it couldn’t be better.” Netanyahu acknowledged differences on issues such as potential U.S. sales of F-35 fighter jets to Turkey but emphasized they are handled privately and do not undermine their alliance.

Netanyahu also praised the United States as “the guardian of freedom” and called Trump “the greatest friend we’ve ever had in the White House.”

Despite Netanyahu’s assurances, the poll suggests his standing with Republicans has weakened considerably. The survey found that Netanyahu’s broader image remains under pressure among all registered voters.