California Governor Gavin Newsom has expressed regret for using the term "apartheid" to describe Israel, clarifying his remarks in a recent interview with Politico. The Democrat, widely anticipated to launch a presidential bid in 2028, backtracked on earlier comments made three weeks ago, explaining that he intended the label to apply only to Israel's potential future if it continues on its current path under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Clarification of Controversial Remarks
When asked if he regrets using the term, Newsom responded, "I do in this context. I said it, and I referenced why I used it – a Tom Friedman article – in that same sentence where Tom used it in the context of the direction that Bibi is going." He emphasized that he does not believe the term applies to Israel's present situation, but shared concerns about the direction of Netanyahu's government, particularly regarding the far-right's influence and potential annexation of the West Bank.
Response to Zionist Identity Question
Pressed on whether he considers himself a Zionist, Newsom did not provide a direct answer. Instead, he stated, "I revere the state of Israel. I'm proud to support the state of Israel. I deeply, deeply oppose Bibi Netanyahu's leadership, his opposition to the two-state solution and deeply oppose how he is indulging the far right as it relates to what's going on in the West Bank." This nuanced stance highlights his support for Israel while criticizing its current political leadership.
Original Comments and Backlash
The original remarks were made during a book tour event with Pod Save America's Jon Favreau, where Newsom commented on Netanyahu's political challenges and the potential for West Bank annexation, referencing Friedman's use of the term "apartheid state." This sparked immediate backlash from pro-Israel groups, including the Israeli-American Civic Action Network, which accused Newsom of advancing narratives from America's enemies. Other pro-Israel Democrats, such as Josh Shapiro and John Fetterman, also voiced their disapproval.
Shifting Public Opinion and Broader Context
Newsom's comments occur amid shifting American public opinion on Israel, influenced by the war in Gaza and broader Middle East tensions, including recent US and Israeli strikes on Iran and retaliatory attacks. A February Gallup poll revealed that 41% of Americans now sympathize more with Palestinians than Israelis, marking a notable change from historical trends. Additionally, various international human rights groups and legal scholars have increasingly adopted the apartheid label to describe Israel's political and legal systems, adding to the contentious debate.
The governor's clarification aims to balance his criticism of Netanyahu's policies with his stated reverence for Israel, reflecting the complex dynamics within US politics and the Democratic Party regarding Middle East issues.
