jpost.com
Majority of Israeli Jews Oppose Hamas in Gaza, Fear Repeat Attack
A Jerusalem Center for Security and Foreign Affairs poll shows 81% of Jewish Israelis fear a repeat of the October 7 Hamas attacks, with 85% opposing Hamas's military presence and 81% rejecting its civilian role in Gaza; 66% of Israelis oppose a Palestinian state.
- What is the primary public sentiment in Israel regarding Hamas's role in Gaza following the October 7 attacks, and what are the immediate implications?
- A recent Jerusalem Center for Security and Foreign Affairs poll reveals that 81% of Jewish Israelis fear another October 7-style attack from the West Bank, and an overwhelming majority oppose Hamas maintaining any power in Gaza. This follows a year and a half after the Hamas-led massacre that triggered the war. The poll included 702 respondents.
- How does the Israeli public's stance on a potential hostage deal involving Hamas relate to broader concerns about the Palestinian state and the ongoing conflict?
- The survey highlights the hardening Israeli public opinion against Hamas, with 85% opposing Hamas's military presence and 81% rejecting its civilian role in Gaza. This strong sentiment extends to opposition to returning evacuated residents to border communities if Hamas remains in power (63% against). These views coincide with enduring opposition to a Palestinian state (78% among Jewish respondents).
- What are the long-term implications of the strong Israeli public opposition to Hamas and a Palestinian state, and how might these views influence future Israeli policies?
- The poll's results indicate a significant shift in Israeli public consciousness regarding security following the October 7 attacks. The deep-seated opposition to Hamas, even in the context of a potential hostage deal, underscores the heightened security concerns and a diminished appetite for compromises that could endanger Israel. Continued Israeli support for the Trump peace plan, despite the ongoing uncertainty, also reflects a certain political resolve.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the narrative primarily through the lens of Israeli security concerns and public opinion. Headlines and emphasis on the overwhelming opposition to Hamas' rule and any potential deals might unintentionally downplay or overshadow the humanitarian considerations and the Palestinian perspective on the conflict. The prioritization of poll results about Israeli fears of further attacks reinforces this security-centric framing.
Language Bias
The language used is generally neutral, although the repeated emphasis on "overwhelming opposition" and "stark picture" could subtly influence reader perception. Phrases such as 'Hamas-led massacre' present a particular interpretation of events. More neutral phrasing, such as 'October 7 attacks' or 'the October 7 events' would reduce bias. The use of terms like 'terrorist' to describe Hamas could be viewed as inflammatory.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the opinions of Israeli Jews, neglecting the perspectives of Palestinians and other relevant stakeholders in the Gaza conflict. The omission of Palestinian voices and narratives limits the understanding of the broader context and potential motivations behind actions taken by Hamas. While acknowledging space constraints, the lack of diverse perspectives constitutes a significant bias by omission.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a false dichotomy by framing the conflict as solely between Israel and Hamas, simplifying a complex geopolitical situation with multiple actors and interests. It overlooks the role of other Palestinian factions, international actors, and the historical context that shaped the current conflict. This oversimplification could mislead readers into believing there are only two opposing sides with no room for compromise or alternative solutions.
Sustainable Development Goals
The poll reveals strong Israeli public opposition to Hamas rule in Gaza, indicating a desire for stability and an end to the conflict. This aligns with SDG 16, which promotes peaceful and inclusive societies, strong institutions, and access to justice. The overwhelming rejection of Hamas maintaining a military force or civilian governance role reflects a demand for accountable and responsible governance, a key component of SDG 16.