Democrats win US Congress; Israeli analysts assess strategic challenges

Democrats gained control of the US Congress in the 2026 midterm elections. Israeli analysts examine implications for Israel, including shifts in US Iran policy, rising anti-Israel sentiment in Congress, and the 2028 presidential race.

Alongside the strengthening of the progressive wing in the Democratic Party, a number of candidates who support Israel recorded victories in the US midterm elections. The article reviews some of the most prominent among them: Josh Shapiro, who won in Pennsylvania and emphasizes his love for Israel while opposing Netanyahu; Hakeem Jeffries, on his way to leading the House of Representatives, who is among the Democratic leaders supporting the strategic alliance; Ritchie Torres, who won again and distinguishes between a pro-Israel stance and support for the current government; and Chuck Schumer, who said that Netanyahu "has lost his way" but supports Israel throughout his life. The emerging picture is more complex than just the strengthening of progressives, and it means that Israel's struggle for the future of its relationship with Democrats is still open.