Trump's Unwavering Support in Israel: A Legacy of the Kushner-Trump Union
For Israel, one of the most significant foreign policy developments occurred on October 25, 2009, at a wedding. On that date, Jared Kushner married Ivanka Trump, who had converted to Judaism earlier that year. This union has been cited as a pivotal moment in shaping the relationship between the United States and Israel under the presidency of Donald Trump.
The Marriage That Shaped Diplomacy
President Donald Trump himself acknowledged the impact of this marriage during a speech to Israel's Knesset, stating, "(Jared) truly loves Israel … In fact, he loves it so much that my daughter converted … I didn't know this was going to happen." He further emphasized the strength of their relationship, calling them "best friends" with a "very special relationship." While it is impossible to definitively prove that the Jared-Ivanka union directly benefited Israel, substantial evidence suggests it played a crucial role in fostering Trump's loyalty to the Jewish state.
Trump's Loyalty Amidst Global Criticism
Donald Trump is known for frequently turning on allies and friends, such as Chris Christie, Marjorie Taylor Greene, and Mike Pence, often with intense animosity. However, his stance on Israel has remained largely steadfast. Despite moments of disrespect, including instances where Trump criticized Israeli leadership or made controversial remarks about Jewish people, his support in Israel has not waned. Notably, Trump has made statements accusing Jews of wanting to control politicians and being disloyal, yet this has not diminished his popularity among Israelis.
Polling Data Reveals Strong Backing
Recent opinion polls in Israel highlight widespread support for Trump's policies. Three separate surveys conducted by the Israeli Democracy Institute, the Institute for National Security Studies, and the Jewish People Policy Institute showed approval rates of 82%, 81%, and 72%, respectively, for the decision to attack Iran's terror-supporting regime. Among Israeli Jews, confidence in Trump reached 82%, with 64% reported in a July 2025 poll. In the United States, 68% of Jewish respondents supported the strike on Iran, though opposition was higher among liberal Jews at 62%.
On-the-Ground Observations
During a visit to Israel in May, it was evident that Trump is deeply admired there. In Hostages Square, where protests against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have occurred, hostage families directed their pleas for release toward Trump, not their own leader. This preference underscores Trump's perceived role as a champion for Israeli interests, despite his controversial reputation globally.
Political Implications and Global Perception
While Trump's support in Israel is strong, it may not be politically beneficial for Jews worldwide. Canadian Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has demonstrated the risks of aligning too closely with Trump, as polls indicate Trump often has a negative impact on political fortunes elsewhere. Yet, in Israel and among the Jewish diaspora, enthusiasm for Trump remains high, with many indifferent to external opinions. The Jared-Ivanka union likely contributes to this dynamic, though it is not the sole factor.
In summary, Donald Trump's enduring support in Israel, bolstered by the Kushner-Trump marriage, contrasts sharply with his global image, highlighting a unique diplomatic relationship that continues to influence Middle Eastern politics.
