What’s happening:
A disturbing trend is emerging in Palestinian society where anti-Israeli sentiment is escalating towards genocidal desires. Author and journalist Douglas Murray highlights this shift in attitude during an interview with Piers Morgan, referencing the horrific treatment of Shani Louk, a German-Israeli victim of Palestinian terrorism.
Why it matters:
This alarming shift in public opinion among Palestinians is not limited to a fringe element but is reflected in widespread support for Hamas and its violent actions against Israelis. Polling data suggests a significant portion of the Palestinian population in both the West Bank and Gaza endorses the terror group’s methods, including the brutal October 7 massacre.
By the numbers:
Recent polls conducted by the Arab World for Research and Development (AWRAD) reveal that 75% of Palestinians support the attack on October 7, with 59% extremely supportive. Additionally, 98% of respondents felt prouder of their Palestinian identity following the event. Hamas’s popularity remains strong, with approval ratings of 76% in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, overshadowing the Palestinian Authority’s meager 10% positive rating.
The big picture:
These statistics are symptomatic of a broader issue where the desire for a peaceful two-state solution is being overshadowed by a call for a Palestinian state from the river to the sea. Only 17% of respondents support a two-state outcome, while the majority advocate for a government led by various Islamic groups, including Hamas.
Between the lines:
The international narrative often paints Hamas as unrepresentative of the Palestinian people’s will. However, the data indicates that a peaceful Palestinian populace is increasingly rare, and support for violent actions against Israelis is becoming normalized.
What’s next:
With high levels of approval for terror organizations and a strong desire for a unity government that includes these groups, the prospects for peace remain tenuous. The genocidal sentiment that is taking hold poses a significant challenge to reconciliation and the establishment of lasting peace in the region.
This story was first published on jpost.com.