US President Donald Trump recently commented on Israel’s shifting influence in global politics and Congress, highlighting concerns over the country’s public image despite its military actions in Gaza.
In an interview with the Daily Caller, Trump expressed surprise at Israel losing some of its sway in the US Congress. “If you go back 20 years, I will tell you, Israel had the strongest lobby in the Congress of anything or body I’ve ever seen,” he said. He added that during that period, politicians couldn’t afford to speak negatively about Israel.
Trump recalled that around 15 years ago, Israel had “total control over Congress,” a situation he finds surprising to see diminished today. Speaking about the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel, he called it a “truly horrible day” and stressed the need for Israel to resolve the conflict quickly.
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“They may be winning the war, but they’re not winning the world of public relations, and it is hurting them. But Israel was the strongest lobby 15 years ago that there has ever been, and now it’s been hurt, especially in Congress,” Trump noted.
Despite these criticisms, Trump maintained that he enjoys strong support from Israel, calling the country “amazing.” He also claimed, “Nobody has done more for Israel than I have,” citing recent US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities during the 12-day Iran-Israel conflict. “We, that plane, wiped them (Iran) out like nobody ever saw before,” he added.
Concerns Over Israel’s International Image
Israel’s global reputation has faced criticism from international leaders. British Foreign Secretary David Lammy voiced “outrage” over Israel restricting aid into Gaza, pledging £15 million ($20 million) more for medical assistance. Lammy emphasized efforts to evacuate critically ill and injured children to the UK for specialist care.
“This is not a natural disaster, it’s a manmade famine in the 21st century,” Lammy said, adding that Israel’s actions are diminishing its standing, particularly among young people worldwide. He called for a “massive humanitarian response” to prevent further deaths and starvation in Gaza, noting that UN warnings indicate the region’s largest city is facing severe famine.
Egypt also condemned Israel’s decision to expand military operations in Gaza. The Egyptian Foreign Ministry criticized Israel for ignoring proposed de-escalation deals from Egypt and Qatar, suggesting the country opposes peace efforts and continues to violate international law.
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