What’s new:
A recent survey conducted by Harvard University and The Harris Poll reveals a startling shift in opinion among young Americans aged 18 to 24, with over half believing that the best way to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is to end the existence of Israel in favor of Hamas control.
Why it matters:
This opinion stands in stark contrast to older generations, with only 4% of those aged 65 or older holding the view that Israel should be eliminated. The findings reflect not just differing perspectives on foreign policy, but also broader debates about freedom of speech and the nature of antisemitism.
By the numbers:
The data outlines a radical shift from previous opinions, with the young demographic’s support for Hamas doubling since an earlier survey conducted close to the time of the October 7 Hamas attack. Current support for a two-state solution stands at 32% among young Americans, with even fewer, 17%, advocating for Arab nations to integrate Palestinians.
Generational divide:
These younger Americans also hold divergent views on the justification of Hamas’s violent actions, with a significant majority, 60%, considering the October 7 massacre as a justified response to what they perceive as Israeli genocide – a viewpoint that aligns with an alarming 67% of the same age group labeling Jews as oppressors.
On campuses:
In the context of university environments that have recently seen heightened anti-Israel sentiment, the poll indicates that 53% of young participants believe that calls for the genocide of Jews should be permissible without consequence.
Views on leadership:
The survey also provides an insight into attitudes towards political figures, revealing a slight improvement in the favorability of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, at 36%. In contrast, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas receives positive views from a mere 12% of respondents.
Biden vs. Trump:
Amidst these shifting opinions, there is also a declining endorsement for the way U.S. President Joe Biden is handling the Gaza war, with support decreasing slightly from a previous poll. When faced with a hypothetical choice between Biden or Trump for the 2024 presidential elections, a narrow majority of 48% prefer Trump over Biden at 42%.
The big picture:
The poll’s findings suggest a generational gap that could influence future U.S. policy and relations with Israel, as well as shine a light on the changing landscape of political opinions among younger Americans towards the Middle-Eastern conflict.
This story was first published on ynetnews.com.