ISLAMABAD: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing mounting global criticism and widespread disapproval over his policies and military actions against Palestinians, according to a recent Gallup International survey in which more than 57,000 people participated across 58 countries worldwide, including Pakistan.
In the survey, Gallup International asked citizens in 58 countries to share their opinion about the Israeli prime minister. In response, a total of 61pc stated that they held an unfavorable view of Netanyahu, while only 19pc expressed a positive opinion. Meanwhile, 20pc of respondents declined to offer any opinion. According to Gallup, the global disapproval rate of Netanyahu stood at 41pc in 2019; however, the latest survey indicates that this figure has surged by 20 percentage points, reflecting a notable increase in negative perceptions over recent years.
The survey revealed that the highest levels of disapproval were recorded in Iran at 98pc and Iraq at 91pc.
The survey also demonstrated a substantial rate of dissatisfaction with the Israeli prime minister across several European countries. In Norway, 83pc of respondents expressed disapproval, followed by Sweden at 80pc, Denmark at 79pc, Ireland at 78pc and Switzerland at 77pc. Belgium and Spain each recorded a 75pc disapproval rate, while Portugal stood at 69pc.
Interestingly, in countries where governments are traditionally viewed as supportive of Israel, public opinion appeared more divided or even critical. In Germany, 74pc of citizens—contrary to their government’s position—said they disliked the Israeli prime minister. Similarly, 52pc of respondents in Britain expressed disapproval, while in the United States, 42pc reported holding a negative view of Netanyahu.
When examining Muslim-majority nations, the survey reflected considerable levels of disapproval. In Malaysia, 71pc of respondents expressed strong dislike for the Israeli prime minister. Turkey followed with 64pc, Indonesia with 53pc, and Pakistan with 49pc indicating negative opinions.
In contrast to the predominantly negative global trend, Netanyahu received comparatively stronger support in a few countries. In Azerbaijan and Kenya, 58pc of respondents expressed a positive opinion of the Israeli leader. India also showed relatively higher support, with 50pc of respondents sharing a favorable view.
