International Reputation of Israel Under Scrutiny: Crisis of Global Credibility Looms
Israel, a nation long-regarded as a beacon of democracy and adherence to international law, finds itself in the midst of a crisis of international credibility. This shift in global opinion has been fueled by a series of controversial actions taken by the Netanyahu government, particularly in Gaza and the West Bank.
According to a recent Pew poll, majorities in countries such as the Netherlands (78%), Japan (79%), Spain (75%), Australia (74%), Turkey (93%), and Sweden (75%) hold unfavorable views of Israel [1]. The international community, including Israel's traditional supporters, is increasingly critical of the Netanyahu government's actions.
The International Criminal Court (ICC) has taken action, issuing arrest warrants for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former defense minister Yoav Gallant on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity related to Gaza [1]. Numerous international law experts and human rights groups also accuse Israel of genocide in Gaza.
Criticism of the Netanyahu government's actions comes not only from abroad but also from within Israel. Prominent Israeli figures, including former prime ministers Ehud Olmert and Ehud Barak, respected public intellectuals, and hundreds of retired Israeli security officials, have harshly criticized Netanyahu’s government [1].
In the United States, support for Israel’s military actions has declined to historic lows. A 2025 Gallup poll reports only 32% back Israel's Gaza operations, with Netanyahu viewed unfavorably by 52% [2][3]. According to a recent Economist/YouGov survey, 45% of American voters believe Israel is committing genocide against Palestinians, while only 31% disagree [3].
The expanding starvation crisis in the Gaza strip and the proposed plan for a full military takeover of Gaza by Netanyahu further exacerbate the situation. The current international opinion on Israel's actions under Netanyahu is predominantly negative and critical, with calls for accountability and an end to military operations that many global observers view as disproportionate and unlawful.
References: [1] Pew Research Center, 2025. [Link] [2] Gallup, 2025. [Link] [3] Economist/YouGov, 2025. [Link]
- The rise in international disapproval of Israel is evident in numerous commentary pieces and general news outlets, with war-and-conflicts in Gaza and the West Bank being a major focus of criticism.
- Amidst a storm of negative opinions from the international community and human rights groups alleging war crimes and even genocide, politics within Israel also shows a growing dissent against the Netanyahu government's actions, particularly regarding their decisions in Gaza and the West Bank.
