Poll: Majority of Arab Israelis Say Hamas’ Actions Do Not Reflect Their Values

A majority of Arab Israelis, representing diverse religious backgrounds, do not believe the Hamas attack on October 7 reflects the values of Arab society, the Palestinian people, or the Islamic nation. This sentiment was expressed in a recent survey conducted by the Israel Democracy Institute’s Center for Democratic Values and Institutions, along with its Viterbi Center for Public Opinion and Policy Research.

The survey found that 56% of Arab Israelis, including 53% of Muslims, 68% of Christians, and 69.5% of Druze, agree with the statement by Member of Knesset Mansour Abbas, chair of the Ra’am party, that the actions of Hamas do not represent these groups. However, 33% disagreed and 11% were unsure, possibly influenced by the political nature of Abbas’ statement.

Further findings indicate complex views among Arab Israelis on various issues. For instance, 58% believe Hamas and Israel are equally responsible for harm to Gazan civilians during the war. Relationships with Jewish friends largely remained unchanged for 78% of Arab Israelis with such connections, despite the conflict.

Additionally, the survey highlighted Arab Israelis’ comfort levels in different social situations and their sense of belonging to the State of Israel, with 65% feeling a part of the country. However, concerns about physical and economic security have increased among Arab Israelis, in contrast to a decrease in concern among Jewish Israelis.

Criticism was also noted toward key institutions, including political parties and the Israel Police, with low ratings for their performance since the war began.

The survey, conducted by telephone in Arabic between November 27 and December 4, 2023, included 538 men and women and was carried out by Afkar Research Ltd. headed by Dr. Hisham Jubran. The maximum sampling error was ±4.31% at a confidence level of 95%.