Blinken says he told Netanyahu to worry about young Republicans

Antony Blinken said on Sunday that he warned Benjamin Netanyahu in the spring of 2024 that Israel risked losing support from young Republicans and young evangelicals. He made the remarks during a panel at the Jewish Federations of North America General Assembly in Washington. Blinken noted that this demographic shift posed a threat alongside the existing challenges Israel faced within the Democratic Party.

The former diplomat recalled a specific conversation with the Israeli Prime Minister regarding the political fallout from the Gaza war. Blinken told Netanyahu that the loss of the Democratic Party might be acceptable from Israel's perspective. He argued that the erosion of support among younger right-wing voters was a distinct concern that required attention.

Blinken appeared on stage with former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. Juju Chang, an ABC News journalist, moderated the discussion. Both men defended the strategic value of the US-Israel alliance but expressed differing views on several key issues. They disagreed on how to handle Iran, the prospect of Palestinian statehood, and Israel's response to international criticism regarding its conduct in Gaza.

Blinken observed that the public image of Israel has shifted between generations. He described growing up with the perception of Israel as David facing a surrounding Goliath. He said the current generation views that dynamic in reverse. He characterized this shift as a strategic challenge for Israeli leaders with implications for American politics and future bilateral arrangements.

The two former secretaries also diverged on military assistance and diplomatic strategy. Blinken noted that the security assistance memorandum signed in 2016 covers fiscal years 2019 through 2028. It provides a framework for $38 billion, which includes $3.3 billion annually in military financing and $500 million annually for missile defense. He said Israel appears to understand that American funding is not infinite and that the Israeli public is being prepared to finance its own weapons purchases.

Pompeo emphasized the strength of institutional ties, particularly in intelligence cooperation. He stated that Israeli intelligence helped protect him from threats posed by Iran, mentioning a one million dollar bounty on his head. The pair disagreed on how to confront Iran. Pompeo advocated for increasing pressure and maintaining an economic blockade. Blinken warned that military action to secure shipping through the Strait of Hormuz would require major escalation and favored sustained economic pressure to bring Tehran to the negotiating table.

The 2026 General Assembly opened Sunday in Washington and continues through Tuesday. The event brings together Jewish communal leaders, philanthropists, and professionals from North America, Israel, and beyond. Held following elections in both the United States and Israel, this year's gathering focuses on the US-Israel relationship, combating antisemitism, and supporting Israel's recovery after three years of war.