Pew Research Center Poll Reveals American Perceptions on Responsibility in Israel-Hamas Conflict
Pew Research Center Poll Reveals American Perceptions on Responsibility in Israel-Hamas Conflict
A recent survey conducted by the US-based think tank Pew Research Center sheds light on American perspectives regarding the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. The findings indicate that 65 percent of American respondents believe that Hamas bears ‘a lot of responsibility’ for the conflict, while 35 percent attribute the responsibility to the Israeli government.
The survey reveals a partisan divide, with a majority of Republicans (73 percent) and Democrats (62 percent) placing blame on Hamas. However, Democrats are more than twice as likely as Republicans (21 percent) to hold the Israeli government responsible for the conflict.
Age demographics also play a role in shaping opinions, with approximately 60 percent of respondents aged 30 and above attributing responsibility to Hamas, compared to 46 percent among young adults aged 18-29. Notably, 8 in 10 respondents above the age of 65 believe that Hamas holds ‘a lot’ of responsibility for the conflict.
As the Israel-Hamas war continues, with estimates indicating around 1,200 Israelis and at least 17,000 Palestinians killed over the past two months, the survey also delves into public perceptions of the military operations. About 38 percent of adults under the age of 35 believe that Israel’s military operation against Hamas in Gaza is going too far, with differing views among older respondents.
Additionally, the study highlights that approximately 41 percent of Americans disapprove of President Joe Biden’s response to the conflict, while 35 percent approve. Younger adults, especially those under 30, express the most negative views of the Biden administration’s policies on the Israel-Hamas war.
The survey, conducted between November 27 and December 3, sought responses from 5,203 adults in the US. It indicates that Americans who closely follow news about the conflict are more likely to have opinions on the administration’s response.
