In the wake of the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack, Israeli public opinion has undergone significant changes, according to a new poll released by the Council for a Secure America (CSA). The survey highlights a marked shift in attitudes towards key issues, including the two-state solution and regional relations.
Key findings from the poll include:
- 65% of Israeli Jewish likely voters now oppose a two-state solution, with nearly half of those citing the October 7 attack as the reason for their change in stance.
- Despite this, 77% of respondents continue to support the Abraham Accords, indicating ongoing optimism about broader Middle East relations.
- 58% view Iran as the primary orchestrator behind attacks from Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis.
- There's near-unanimous agreement on the importance of the U.S.-Israel relationship.
- A majority favor either Israeli or international coalition governance of Gaza post-war, showing opposition to both Hamas and the Fatah-controlled Palestinian Authority.
The survey also reveals the personal impact of recent events on Israeli society:
- 57% of respondents reported that they or a family member have served in the military since October 7.
- 19% said they or a family member had to evacuate their home.
Jennifer Sutton, executive director of CSA, commented on the findings: "The October 7 massacre and the war against Hamas have had significant impacts on the lives of everyday Israelis. While October 7 has moved Israelis strongly away from a two-state solution, they remain optimistic about their relations in the broader Middle East."
The poll, conducted by Panels Ltd. from July 8-10, surveyed 612 Israeli Jewish likely voters with a margin of error of +/- 4.0% at a 95% confidence level.
These results provide crucial insights into the shifting landscape of Israeli public opinion, offering valuable information for policymakers and stakeholders in both Israel and the United States as they navigate the complex dynamics of Middle East politics and diplomacy.
* Jewish News Syndicate contributed to this article.