Majority of Israelis back Gaza attack for hostage rescue, hint at post-war elections
11:22 AM EST, January 2, 2024
On October 7, members of Hamas infiltrated the Israeli border, leading to the death of approximately 1,200 individuals, among them children, the elderly and pregnant women. More than 240 people were kidnapped, taken to the Gaza Strip, of which only about 110 have been released. Subsequently, the Israeli army initiated an operation aimed at Hamas in the enclave.
In a poll conducted by the Israel Democracy Institute (IDI), about 56% of the participants viewed the continuation of the offensive as the most effective way to rescue the captives.
On the contrary, 24% of those surveyed suggest that a new agreement with Hamas regarding a hostage exchange would be a more efficient solution.
End of Netanyahu's rule? Israelis express their views
Respondents also shared their thoughts on the parliamentary elections. 69% of respondents are of the opinion that the elections should be conducted immediately after the war's conclusion.
Interestingly, only 15% of respondents wish for Benjamin Netanyahu to stay in his role as Prime Minister. On the other hand, 23% would prefer Benny Gantz, an opposition leader, former defense minister and presently a member of the war cabinet, to replace Netanyahu. However, 30% did not specify who they think should succeed Netanyahu.
For this survey, 746 residents of Israel participated. It was carried out between December 25 and 28, with a statistical error margin of 5 percent points.
