Hostage Release Trumps Hamas Ouster in Israeli Public Opinion
A recent survey reveals a division among Israelis regarding the goals of the Israel-Hamas war, with 51% prioritizing the return of hostages over the ousting of Hamas, which garnered 36% support. Conducted by the Viterbi Family Center for Public Opinion and Policy Research, this January 2024 Israeli Voice Index shows a split perspective, with a significant majority of Arab Israelis (69%) favoring the hostages’ return. Political affiliations also influence opinions, as voters from prewar coalition parties lean toward toppling Hamas, contrasting with opposition voters who focus on freeing hostages.
The survey further explores attitudes toward a Palestinian state as part of a peace deal involving military quiet and agreements with Arab states like Saudi Arabia, revealing that 51% of Israelis oppose this idea. Disagreement extends to the timing of the next Knesset elections, with a vast majority (71%) favoring earlier elections rather than elections at the scheduled time, November 2026.
Opinions on the International Court of Justice’s recent ruling on Israel’s actions in Gaza are divided; half of Jewish Israelis view it as harsh, whereas a smaller fraction of Arab Israelis agree. The public is also split on postponing investigations into the events of October 7, reflecting a broader uncertainty about the state’s success in ensuring citizen security and the future of Israel’s security and democratic governance.
