A fresh survey shows that a majority of Americans want the United States to recognize Palestinian statehood, highlighting a sharp contrast with President Donald Trump’s position.
The poll, conducted over six days ending October 20, 2025, found 59% in favor, with 33% opposed and the rest undecided. This broad support crosses party lines, with 80% of Democrats and 41% of Republicans backing the idea.
The findings suggest Trump’s stance on this issue doesn’t align with mainstream American views. As global allies like Britain, Canada, France, and Australia have recently acknowledged Palestinian statehood, the U.S. public appears ready for a similar step, despite Israel’s strong opposition tied to its 1948 founding and ongoing conflicts.
Views on Gaza Response
The poll also captured opinions on the Gaza conflict. Some 60% of respondents felt Israel’s military actions there were excessive, compared to 32% who disagreed.
This sentiment underscores public concern over the war’s toll, which began with Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack killing 1,200 Israelis, followed by Israel’s response that has devastated Gaza and claimed over 67,000 Palestinian lives according to Gaza health officials.
Trump, who returned to office in January 2025, has strongly supported Israel throughout the conflict. However, his recent brokering of a ceasefire has sparked optimism for lasting peace.
The survey indicates Americans are willing to credit him for success: 51% agreed Trump deserves significant recognition if the truce holds, including 25% of Democrats, while 42% disagreed.
Trump’s Foreign Policy Boost
Trump’s foreign policy approval has edged up to 38% in this poll, up from 33% earlier in October before the ceasefire. This marks his highest rating since July 2025, reflecting cautious public approval of his diplomatic efforts.
Yet, unresolved issues like Hamas disarmament, Israeli troop withdrawals, and Gaza’s governance cast doubt on the ceasefire’s durability.
The poll, taken online with 4,385 nationwide respondents, has a 2% margin of error. It paints a picture of a public eager for peace but critical of the war’s conduct, with strong backing for Palestinian statehood as a path forward.
Global Recognition Wave
The poll coincides with a surge in international recognition of Palestinian statehood, a move Israel condemns. This trend, led by Western allies, signals shifting global dynamics, pressuring the U.S. to reconsider its approach.
Trump’s ceasefire achievement offers a potential bridge, but the survey shows his views on statehood lag behind public sentiment.
Implications for U.S. Policy
The results challenge Trump’s Middle East strategy, which has prioritized Israel amid the Gaza war. With 60% viewing Israel’s response as overkill, there’s growing pressure for a balanced U.S. stance.
The 51% ready to praise Trump if peace holds suggests a public willing to reward results, but the 59% pro-statehood majority indicates a desire for deeper engagement.
As ceasefire talks continue, key hurdles like Hamas’s future and Gaza’s rebuilding loom large. The poll’s findings could influence policy, pushing for a two-state solution amid calls for accountability.
Public Sentiment Breakdown
Support for Palestinian statehood is strongest among Democrats (80%), but even 41% of Republicans agree, showing bipartisan appeal. On Gaza, 60% see Israel’s actions as excessive, reflecting widespread concern over civilian casualties and destruction.
Trump’s foreign policy rating at 38% his best since July ties to the ceasefire, but the poll warns that failure to resolve core issues could erode gains. With a 2% margin of error, the data underscores a public leaning toward peace and statehood.
Path to Peace
The survey highlights America’s readiness for a two-state solution, contrasting Trump’s Israel focus. As allies recognize Palestine, the U.S. risks isolation without change. Trump’s ceasefire is a start, but lasting peace demands addressing statehood and Gaza’s fate.
The poll, with 4,385 respondents, offers a snapshot of a nation yearning for resolution. Its 2% error margin reinforces the strong pro-statehood tilt. As talks progress, public opinion could guide U.S. moves toward a more balanced Middle East policy.
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