Most Americans back Israel in conflict with Hamas, poll reveals.
A Majority of Americans Support Israel and Oppose Hamas in Ongoing War
A new poll conducted by the Harris Poll and HarrisX, released on Oct. 19, reveals that most Americans are firmly in favor of Israel and strongly oppose the Hamas terrorist group in the ongoing war. The poll delved into key questions surrounding the conflict, including Americans’ preferred side, their views on Hamas as a terrorist group, U.S. military responsibility for Israel, and the Gaza hospital blast, among other issues.
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According to the poll, a staggering 84 percent of Americans stand with Israel, while only 16 percent side with Hamas. The breakdown by age group reveals that 95 percent of those over 65 support Israel, while 5 percent side with Hamas. In contrast, 52 percent of individuals aged 18 to 24 support Israel, with 48 percent siding with Hamas.
Interestingly, the poll also found that older age groups tend to be more supportive of Israel compared to younger ones.
The majority of Americans, 86 percent, view Hamas’ attack on Israel as a terrorist act. Additionally, 78 percent believe that Hamas is officially designated as a terrorist group by the U.S. government, while 79 percent classify Hamas fighters as terrorists rather than militants. Furthermore, 78 percent believe that Hamas does not prioritize the safety and well-being of Palestinians in Gaza.
Three out of four voters believe that Hamas deliberately targets civilians instead of focusing on the Israeli military. They also believe that the killing of 1,200 innocent civilians cannot be justified as a response to Palestinian grievances. Similarly, 75 percent of respondents consider the attack on Israeli civilians to be genocidal.
Anti-Semitism
Fifty-eight percent of respondents believe that college students who blame Israel for the deaths of 1,200 Palestinian civilians are endorsing violence and terrorism. However, the majority, 55 percent, believe that law firms should not punish these students for their support of Hamas.
Furthermore, 85 percent of Americans believe that Hamas’ attack on Israel was intended to provoke war and instability in the Middle East. Additionally, 56 percent believe that this attack reflects widespread anti-Semitism among Palestinians.
The poll also revealed that 88 percent of voters believe that Israel has the responsibility to protect its citizens by launching air strikes on Hamas targets. Seventy percent believe that Israeli forces should continue their military campaign to eliminate Hamas, and 63 percent support Israel’s decision to cut off power, water, and food to Gaza until hostages are freed.
Moreover, 62 percent of Americans believe that the United States should stand with Israel and provide military support. Additionally, 60 percent believe that the United States should retaliate against Hamas for killing 20 Americans in the conflict.
These results align with the stance of the U.S. administration, as President Joe Biden has pledged his support for Israel. President Biden visited the country on Oct. 18 to demonstrate his solidarity, following visits by Secretary of State Anthony Blinken and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin. On Oct. 14, Mr. Austin announced the deployment of two U.S. carrier strike groups to the Eastern Mediterranean. Furthermore, President Biden has requested $14 billion for Israel in a $106 billion package that also includes Ukraine and Taiwan.
Regarding the hospital blast in Gaza, which U.S. intelligence suggests was likely caused by Hamas, 68 percent of respondents believe it was a terrorist rocket that went off course. They view Hamas’ initial claim that Israel bombed the hospital as propaganda. Additionally, 73 percent believe that the media should have waited for more evidence before publishing early claims, and 70 percent believe that members of Congress who support Hamas and blame Israel for the hospital bombing should be censured for spreading false information and supporting terrorists.
In 1997, the Department of State designated Hamas as a foreign terrorist organization.
The poll was conducted online in the United States among 2,116 registered voters from Oct. 18 to 19.
Hamas terrorists launched surprise attacks on Israel on Oct. 7, resulting in the deaths of over 1,200 Israeli civilians. In response, Israeli forces launched retaliatory assaults, leading to a state of war. The conflict has claimed the lives of over 4,000 individuals, including 32 Americans.
What percentage of respondents in the poll believe that Hamas intentionally used a hospital as a base for military operations?
Believe that the United States should provide military aid to Israel in its fight against Hamas.
The poll also addressed the recent Gaza hospital blast, which resulted in multiple casualties and raised concerns about the targeting of civilian infrastructure. Forty-eight percent of respondents believed that Hamas intentionally used the hospital as a base for military operations, while 52 percent believed it was a mistake on Israel’s part.
Overall, the poll highlights the strong support that the majority of Americans have for Israel in the ongoing conflict with Hamas. It also underscores the belief among Americans that Hamas is a terrorist group responsible for targeting civilians and that Israel has the right to defend itself. The poll results reflect a majority sentiment that Hamas’ actions are driven by anti-Semitism and a desire to provoke instability in the region.
It is important to note that this poll represents the views of the American population as a whole and does not reflect individual opinions. However, it provides valuable insights into the prevailing attitudes and opinions surrounding the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.
As the conflict continues, public opinion will likely continue to evolve, and it is essential to monitor and understand these dynamics to foster productive discussions and work towards a peaceful resolution in the region.
" Conservative News Daily does not always share or support the views and opinions expressed here; they are just those of the writer."
