As the U.S. elections approach, the political landscape is marked by significant polarization, particularly among Jewish voters in Israel. A recent report indicates that 72% of Jewish Israelis prefer Donald Trump over Kamala Harris, highlighting the importance of foreign policy in their voting decisions [6a9a385f]. Approximately 147,000 eligible American voters reside in Israel, and Republicans are optimistic about early voting and new registrations, anticipating gains in Congress [6a9a385f].
The backdrop of this election is the ongoing conflict in Gaza, which has intensified since the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, described as the largest attack on Jews since the Holocaust. This event has influenced voter sentiment, with some, like Jared Kushner, expressing concern over rising anti-Israel sentiments within the Democratic Party [6a9a385f].
In Gaza, residents remain skeptical of U.S. candidates, fearing that neither Trump nor Harris will adequately support their plight amidst the ongoing conflict. Abdul Kareem al-Kahlout, a math teacher, articulated concerns that both candidates back the war, which has resulted in over 43,000 fatalities in Gaza due to Israeli bombardments following the Hamas attack [202932e8].
In contrast, Rima Swaisi views Harris as the 'less worse' option, while Hanin Ashour holds the U.S. responsible for her family's deaths, rejecting American humanitarian aid altogether [202932e8]. This sentiment reflects a broader frustration among Gazans, who feel treated as pawns in a geopolitical game [202932e8].
Meanwhile, in the UK, Foreign Secretary David Cameron has emphasized the need for effective aid to Gaza and a ceasefire to alleviate tensions, while pro-Palestinian candidates like Shanaz Saddique are mobilizing Muslim voters by addressing dissatisfaction with the major parties' stances on the conflict [f17549bc][72a320ff].