A generational divide in U.S. foreign policy views
A Harvard CAPS-Harris poll conducted in August 2025 has revealed a stark split in U.S. attitudes toward the Israel-Hamas conflict. While 60% of Generation Z respondents (ages 18–24) said they support Hamas over Israel, older Americans overwhelmingly favor Israel, with support climbing as high as 89% among those over 65.
The findings suggest a dramatic generational shift, influenced by social media narratives and images of Gaza’s famine, raising fresh questions about the future of U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East.
Support rises with age
The survey asked participants whether they support Israel or Hamas in the ongoing war. Results showed support for Hamas declines steadily with age:
- 65% of Americans aged 25–34 back Israel.
- 70% of those aged 35–44 favor Israel.
- 74% of 45–54-year-olds support Israel.
- 84% of 55–64-year-olds stand with Israel.
- 89% of those 65 and older overwhelmingly reject Hamas.
Across all respondents, 74% sided with Israel compared to 26% with Hamas.
Partisan differences also visible
The poll also revealed a political divide. Among Democrats, 67% backed Israel, while 82% of Republicans expressed support for the Jewish state. Despite party differences, Hamas support remained concentrated among younger voters rather than older partisans.
Hostage negotiations remain tense
The survey found that 58% of Americans believe Israel should only agree to a hostage deal if Hamas permanently leaves Gaza. Hamas recently signaled agreement to a partial cease-fire that would free more than half of the 50 remaining hostages in exchange for a 60-day truce.
However, Israeli forces this week discovered the bodies of two hostages in Gaza, deepening tensions. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected partial deals, insisting that Hamas must leave Gaza entirely before the war can end.
