At last week’s Jerusalem Post New York Conference, Alex Bruesewitz, CEO of X Strategies and Adviser to President Donald J. Trump, said that Israel's favorability among the American people has declined in recent years, noting that less than 40% of Americans have a favorable view of Israel, despite the fact that Israel is one of America’s closest and most capable allies.
He criticized remarks made by Senator Ted Cruz, who, he said, had “accused President Trump and his administration of appeasing Iran before any of the details were even known.” Bruesewitz stated that “I believe Israel would be better served by advocates who practice greater restraint, wisdom, and a clear focus on American national interests.”
Bruesewitz shared he supports Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s call to gradually phase out US military aid to Israel. “A more self-reliant Israel demonstrates the confidence and capability that we admire,” he stated. “Moving toward this model will strengthen the alliance by framing it as a true partnership of sovereign nations, not dependency. It aligns perfectly with America First principles while showing the world that Israel is a powerful independent force.”
He added that Israel’s support can be strengthened in the United States by focusing on the clear mutual interests between both countries, Israel’s prowess as a partner on the battlefield, and by fostering honest dialogue. Under those circumstances, he said, “I'm confident we can rebuild broad, durable support across the American public, especially among the next generation. I am convinced that by being candid about the challenges, while emphasizing the tremendous opportunities ahead, we can secure this alliance for many generations to come.”