Most Israelis support a firm security approach toward regional threats, express deep skepticism toward ceasefire agreements with terrorist groups, and oppose the establishment of a Palestinian state, according to a new public opinion survey conducted by the Jerusalem Center for Foreign Affairs and Security.
The survey, based on a representative sample of Israel’s adult population, was conducted in cooperation with Lazar Research and led by Dr. Menachem Lazar.
It highlights a public mood that continues to prioritize security concerns in the aftermath of October 7, with broad support for military action against hostile actors and limited confidence in diplomatic arrangements.
The survey found that 56% of Israelis support military action against Hezbollah even if it could lead to direct confrontation with Iran. A minority of respondents opposed such action.
The findings suggest widespread acceptance of the view that Hezbollah poses a significant threat requiring decisive steps, even at the risk of regional escalation.
A total of 79% of respondents said they do not trust ceasefires with Hamas and Hezbollah and believe such agreements do not ensure Israel’s long-term security.
The results point to what the researchers describe as an erosion of public confidence in political and international mechanisms designed to prevent renewed fighting.
High opposition to Palestinian state
On the Palestinian issue, 66% of Israelis said they oppose the establishment of a Palestinian state. That figure has remained largely unchanged since the October 7 attack.
The data indicate that security considerations continue to dominate public attitudes toward any future political settlement.
The survey also measured attitudes towards US President Donald Trump's plan for Gaza, a proposal for the enclave’s future governance framework.
It found that 57% of Israelis support the plan, down from 69% last year. Despite the decline, the results still indicate a clear majority in favor of its overall direction.
Respondents also expressed broad support for maintaining strategic security zones, preserving Israel’s operational freedom along its borders, and continuing operations against regional threats.
Israeli public more cautious, security-focused after October 7
Dr. Dan Diker, president of the Jerusalem Center for Foreign Affairs and Security, said the findings reflect a public that has become more cautious and security-focused since October 7.
“The survey findings point to a more sober Israeli public, deeply influenced by the lessons of October 7 and the ongoing security reality in the region," said Diker. "Israelis are seeking real security rather than promises, and are showing increasing skepticism toward arrangements that are not based on Israel’s independent ability to defend itself.”
“The central message emerging from the survey is that most of the Israeli public prefers deterrence, security control, and independent operational capability over reliance on external guarantees," added Diker. "These positions are evident both in relation to the Iranian and Hezbollah threats, in relation to ceasefires, and in relation to the issue of a Palestinian state.”