ISLAMABAD — A new global survey by Gallup International shows that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing mounting worldwide disapproval, with 61% of respondents across 58 countries expressing an unfavorable view of his leadership.
The survey, conducted among more than 57,000 people worldwide, marks a sharp 20-percentage-point rise in negative opinion compared to 2019, when global disapproval stood at 41%. Only 19% of respondents reported a favorable view of Netanyahu, while 20% said they had no opinion.
The findings suggest that Netanyahu has become one of the most polarizing political leaders globally, with unfavorable perceptions now significantly outweighing support in most surveyed regions.
Pakistan reflects global trend
In Pakistan, 49% of respondents said they hold a negative view of the Israeli prime minister, aligning closely with the broader global shift. While the figure is lower than in several Middle Eastern states, it underscores a noticeable hardening of sentiment.
Public discourse in Pakistan has remained closely tied to developments in the Middle East, particularly the Israel-Palestine conflict, which continues to shape public and political opinion.
Middle East records strongest disapproval
The highest levels of disapproval were recorded in Iran (98%) and Iraq (91%), reflecting deep regional opposition.
Among other Muslim-majority countries surveyed, Malaysia registered 71% negative opinion, Turkey 64%, and Indonesia 53%.
Europe shows broad rejection
In Europe, large majorities also expressed unfavorable views. Norway recorded 83% disapproval, followed by Sweden (80%), Denmark (79%), Ireland (78%) and Switzerland (77%). Belgium and Spain each registered 75%, while Portugal stood at 69%.
Germany recorded 74% negative opinion, while 52% in the United Kingdom said they viewed Netanyahu unfavorably.
United States and Asia present mixed views
In the United States, 42% expressed a negative opinion, reflecting a more divided public landscape compared to Europe and the Middle East.
In contrast, the survey showed comparatively stronger support in Azerbaijan and Kenya, where 58% expressed favorable views. In India, 50% reported holding a positive opinion.
A widening perception gap
Gallup International did not attribute the shift to specific political events in its summary, but the data indicates a measurable global change in attitudes over the past five years.
With six in ten respondents worldwide now expressing unfavorable views, the survey highlights a widening perception gap around Netanyahu’s leadership — including in Pakistan, where public sentiment appears to mirror the broader global trajectory.
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