California Governor Gavin Newsom sharply criticized the Israeli government during a podcast appearance this week, saying some people 'appropriately' describe Israel as an apartheid state and questioning continued United States military aid. Promoting his memoir, he argued that current Israeli leadership is pushing the United States toward reconsidering its support.

Newsom took aim at Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, suggesting the Israeli leader is motivated by domestic political pressures and legal troubles. He said he did not expect to arrive at his current position but believes the situation is escalating in an alarming way.

The governor also reiterated that he would never accept funding from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee. His remarks come as more Democrats call for restricting or ending military assistance to Israel, while debate over the future of United States aid continues in both major political parties.