A research paper published by the Center for Political and Development Studies has reviewed recent opinion polls conducted in Israel over the past months of the war on the Gaza Strip. The findings reflect growing confusion and division within Israeli society regarding the continuation of the war and the performance of the political and military leadership.

Most of the polls indicate that the Israeli public holds Prime Minister Netanyahu responsible for the security and political failures before and after October 7, 2023. He is also seen as obstructing a prisoner exchange deal. The majority of Israelis now support reaching such a deal, even if it requires a ceasefire and the withdrawal of the army from Gaza.

The paper concludes that a close reading of the evolving poll trends shows a shift in public opinion toward seeking a settlement that ends the war and brings the captives home, after a previous hardline stance in favor of continuing the war.