Israelis React to Trump’s Election Win

V24 team hit the streets of Tel Aviv to find out what people really think about Donald Trump winning the 2024 presidential race.

What Will Trump’s Presidency Mean for Israel?

The election of Donald Trump as the 47th President of the United States elicited a wide range of reactions across the globe. In Israel, a country with deep ties to the U.S., the news sparked conversations filled with hope, skepticism, and concern.

Israelis from various backgrounds shared their thoughts on how Trump’s presidency might impact their nation, particularly in terms of peace, security, and the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.

Optimism for Strong Support

Many Israelis expressed happiness and optimism about Trump’s election, viewing him as a strong supporter of Israel. “He supports Israel, so if he supports Israel, I support him,” one individual stated. Others echoed this sentiment, believing that Trump’s leadership would bolster Israel’s position on the global stage. “Trump is good for Israel,” several people affirmed, highlighting their expectation that he would aid in ending the war and bringing peace to the region.

Expectations of Peace

Some Israelis were hopeful that Trump’s presidency would lead to significant positive changes. “I hope it will end the war for us. He’s a strong guy, and he will do his best,” one person remarked. There was a belief among certain individuals that Trump could replicate previous successes, such as the peace agreements facilitated during his earlier tenure. “He brought peace once last time, so he will bring it again, I’m sure,” another added.

Skepticism and Concern

Conversely, a segment of the population expressed concern and skepticism about Trump’s election. “I think it’s terrible for my country. I think, in the long run, it’s terrible for Israel,” one individual commented, fearing that unwavering support for certain Israeli leaders might not serve the nation’s best interests. Others questioned Trump’s capabilities and intentions, with remarks like, “He’s only dedicated to himself,” and “I don’t think Trump and peace can be in the same sentence.”

Impact on U.S.-Israel Relations

The reactions also touched on the broader implications for U.S.-Israel relations. Some Israelis felt that Trump’s focus on America might overshadow international concerns. “I think that what’s going to happen is that he’s going to just care much for America,” one person suggested. Others were uncertain about the benefits for the United States itself, stating, “It’s good for us but not so much for America.”

Diverse Perspectives Among Citizens

The varied responses highlight the diversity of opinions within Israeli society. While some are staunch supporters of Trump, others remain critical of his policies and character. “As a person, I don’t like him at all,” one individual confessed, despite acknowledging that his leadership might benefit Israel. Another expressed a shift in political alignment due to dissatisfaction with traditional parties: “All my life, until 80 years, I was on the left and I was feminist. Now it’s finished; I am not feminist. I vote now from the right.”

Hope for Resolving Ongoing Conflicts

Amid the mixed feelings, there remains a common desire for peace and stability. Many Israelis, regardless of their stance on Trump, hope for an end to ongoing conflicts. “If he can bring the hostages back, that’s all I need. Let us win the war; that’s enough,” one person emphasized. Another shared a broader perspective: “It’s not only the peace in the Middle East—the peace with Russia in Ukraine, all of the world that happens in our world.”

Looking Ahead

The election of Donald Trump as U.S. President has undeniably stirred a spectrum of emotions in Israel. From enthusiastic support to cautious skepticism, Israelis are contemplating how this change in American leadership will affect their country’s future. While opinions vary, the underlying themes revolve around hopes for peace, security, and the strengthening of U.S.-Israel relations. Only time will reveal the actual impact of Trump’s presidency on Israel and the broader Middle East.

Alexandra Audrey Tompson

Editor-in-Chief | Lawyer (Admitted in New York; England & Wales)