Support is waning… A major shift in US Democrats’ stance toward Netanyahu

17th July 2025

2 minutes read

Support is waning... A major shift in US Democrats’ stance toward Netanyahu

What has been described as a “major shift” in tone among American Democrats has recently emerged, as prominent party figures directed strong criticism at Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

According to the American website Axios, Senate Democrats are beginning to echo the voices of their party base, which has been steadily pulling back its traditional support for Israel.

Senator Elissa Slotkin (of Michigan), a moderate Democrat from a swing state, openly criticized the Israeli government over the lack of humanitarian aid in Gaza and the violence carried out by Israeli settlers in the West Bank.

Senator Tim Kaine (Democrat from Virginia) stated, “There are times, in my view, when Netanyahu does not appear to prioritize the issue of hostages in Gaza.”

He added, “Certainly, there are also times when Hamas doesn’t seem to want a deal either.”

Senator Chris Van Hollen (a moderate Democrat from Maryland), who has been critical of Israel since the beginning of the war, said, “I think it’s far too late for Democratic members of Congress to start speaking about the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza.”

Axios noted that “these comments are part of a significant shift in the Democratic Party’s tone toward Netanyahu.”

On the other hand, Senator John Fetterman (Democrat from Pennsylvania) has stood out as one of the strongest pro-Israel voices within the party.

Fetterman expressed full support for former President Donald Trump’s decision to strike Iran last month, stating that America’s commitment to Israel must be “absolute.”

However, Senator Bernie Sanders (Independent from Vermont) emphasized that lawmakers are beginning to understand that “this is not just a moral issue, but a political one.”

Van Hollen said he was pleased to see more Democrats speaking out. “We have witnessed a pattern of impunity from Netanyahu’s government and a pattern of indifference from the US administration. I’m glad more people are showing concern,” he added.