A recent poll conducted in Gaza has revealed a significant drop in backing for Hamas following the October 7 attack on Israel. The survey, which included 410 respondents across 41 locations in Gaza, showed a notable shift in public opinion over the past six months.
In March, 71% of Palestinians in Gaza supported Hamas' decision to launch the attack, but that number has now decreased to 39%. The poll, which has been conducted regularly since September last year, also included interviews with 790 individuals in the West Bank, with a margin of error of +/- 3.5%.
Despite the challenges of conducting a poll during wartime, the researchers managed to gather insights from areas not directly affected by daily fighting. The findings paint a grim picture of life in Gaza, with only a third of respondents reporting having enough food and 57% indicating that a family member had been killed during the war.
Furthermore, nearly half of those surveyed expressed skepticism about the outcome of the conflict, with many believing that neither Hamas nor Israel will emerge victorious. While support for Hamas as a political party has declined slightly, it remains the most popular political actor in Gaza, with 35% of respondents indicating their support.
Despite the challenges and hardships faced by the people of Gaza, the poll results offer valuable insights into shifting attitudes and perceptions in the region. As conditions continue to deteriorate, it will be crucial to monitor these trends and their potential impact on the ongoing conflict.