Amidst a shifting political landscape and ongoing conflict, new survey results reveal a striking drop in support for the two-state solution among Israelis, a trend that underscores the complexities of the Israel-Palestine peace process.
According to a Pew Research Center poll released this week, public backing for the two-state solution has fallen to a historic low, with only 21% of Israelis believing in the possibility of peaceful coexistence with Palestinians.
This represents a dramatic decline from 50% in 2013, signaling a deepening skepticism and mistrust among the Israeli population regarding peace negotiations.
The survey, conducted during a brief ceasefire in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, highlights a broader sentiment: 75% of respondents identified mistrust between Israelis and Palestinians as a significant barrier to peace.
The tumultuous events following the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack have had a lasting impact on public opinion, with support among Jewish Israelis plummeting even further, from 32% in 2023 to just 16% today.
While Arab Israelis show more optimism, with 40% believing in a peaceful future, the sharp decline in overall support highlights the challenges faced by leaders on both sides when attempting to foster dialogue.
Complicating matters, the survey indicated growing skepticism towards international involvement in the conflict. Despite the challenges, a commendable 81% of Israelis still view the United States as a supportive force in the peace process, contrasting sharply with the negative perceptions of the UN and European entities.
President Donald Trump's influence continues to be felt, as opinions remain split on his Middle East policy. While 42% of Israelis believe he balances interests appropriately, 51% feel he shows preferential treatment towards Israel.
The ongoing crisis not only reflects disillusionment with diplomatic efforts but also reveals a general loss of faith in the leadership of both the Israeli and Palestinian authorities.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's popularity is faltering, with more than half of respondents expressing unfavorable views. The Palestinian Authority under President Mahmoud Abbas faces even steeper disapproval ratings.
As the conflict endures into its second year with no clear resolution in sight, the survey results provide a sobering reminder of the intricate dynamics at play.
In an era defined by uncertainty, the shifting attitudes in Israel highlight the need for renewed dialogue and innovative approaches to conflict resolution, emphasizing that trust remains the cornerstone of any viable peace agreement.
Sources:
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