Thirty Nine percent of Israelis believe that Israel’s military response against Hamas in Gaza has been appropriate, 34 % feel it has not been decisive enough, while 19% think it has been excessive, according to a recent survey conducted by the Pew Research Center.
The survey offers valuable insights into Israeli perspectives on the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.
PERCEPTION OF ISRAEL’S MILITARY ACTIONS
According to the survey, However, 34. These findings reflect the diversity of opinions within Israeli society regarding the efficacy and proportionality of military actions.
CONFIDENCE IN ACHIEVING GOALS
Despite varying views on the military response, approximately two-thirds of Israelis express confidence in Israel’s ability to achieve its goals in the war against Hamas. This confidence underscores the resilience and determination of the Israeli populace in the face of ongoing conflict.
WORRIES ABOUT THE ONGOING CONFLICT
While many Israelis remain confident in Israel’s military capabilities, there are also widespread concerns about the ongoing conflict. The survey reveals that 61% of Israelis are extremely or very concerned about the war expanding into other countries in the region, while 68% express similar concerns about the conflict prolonging.
GOVERNANCE OF THE GAZA STRIP
When asked about post-war scenarios, opinions among Israelis are divided. A plurality (40%) believe that Israel should govern the Gaza Strip, while smaller shares advocate for Gazans to determine their own governance (14%) or support a Palestinian Authority national unity government (6% with Abbas, 12% without Abbas).
CHANGING PERSPECTIVES ON COEXISTENCE
The survey also reveals a shift in Israeli attitudes towards coexistence with an independent Palestinian state. Only 26% of Israelis believe that peaceful coexistence is possible, down from 35% before the war and significantly lower than previous years. This decline reflects the challenges and complexities of achieving lasting peace in the region.
VIEWS ON U.S. INVOLVEMENT
The survey asked Israelis about their views on U.S. involvement in the conflict. Despite recent shifts in U.S. policy, including President Biden’s stance on Israeli military actions, 60% of Israelis disapprove of Biden’s handling of the Israel-Hamas war. However, a majority still want the U.S. to play a major role in diplomatically resolving the conflict.
CONTRASTING VIEWS AMONG ARAB AND JEWISH ISRAELIS
The survey highlights stark contrasts in perspectives between Arab and Jewish Israelis. Arab Israelis are less optimistic about Israel’s military success and express greater concerns about the conflict’s impact. They also have less favorable views of the U.S. and President Biden’s handling of the situation.
The Pew Research survey provides valuable insights into Israeli perspectives on the Israel-Hamas conflict, revealing a diverse range of opinions and concerns within Israeli society. From attitudes towards military response to views on post-war governance and U.S. involvement, these findings underscore the complexity of the situation and the challenges of achieving lasting peace in the region.
