The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is a complex issue, and the United States has traditionally tried to advance a diplomatic solution that would reconcile the competing claims of the two parties. Although the United States is a strong supporter of Israel, it has sought to resolve the conflict with an eye toward obtaining strategic objectives while balancing its support for Israel and pushing for broader regional stability. The U.S. has sought to act as a neutral intermediary between Arab and Israeli interests, allowing it to influence and encourage negotiations between the two sides. Supporting a negotiated two-state solution will continue to be a core U.S. policy objective.

In terms of public opinion, Americans continue to express more positive feelings toward the Israeli people than toward the Palestinian people, and to rate the Israeli government more favorably than the Palestinian government. However, young Americans’ attitudes are as favorable toward the Palestinian people and government as toward Israel. A majority of Americans value the US security partnership with Israel but say the status quo between Israel and Palestinians is unacceptable.

In summary, the United States has traditionally tried to advance a diplomatic solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and it has sought to act as a neutral intermediary between Arab and Israeli interests. Supporting a negotiated two-state solution will continue to be a core U.S. policy objective. While Americans continue to express more positive feelings toward the Israeli people than toward the Palestinian people, young Americans’ attitudes are as favorable toward the Palestinian people and government as toward Israel.