Palestinian support for armed groups and Mahmoud Abbas drops, poll shows

A recent opinion poll conducted by the Palestinian Centre for Policy and Survey Research reveals a decline in support for armed groups and President Mahmoud Abbas among Palestinians. The survey, conducted across Gaza and the occupied West Bank, found that the percentage of people who favor armed struggle as a means to establish an independent Palestinian state dropped from 41% in October to 27% in the most recent poll.

Conversely, support for negotiations surged from 36% to 44%. Despite this shift in attitudes, half of the respondents believe that armed struggle has been effective, while the other half argue it has caused destruction in Gaza and the West Bank. Public confidence in Hamas's ability to represent Palestinians has also waned, falling from 41% to 28% in the past ten months.

Additionally, more than 40% of respondents stated neither Hamas nor its rival, Fatah, should lead the movement. President Abbas's approval rating has plummeted to 18%, down from 21% a year ago, reflecting widespread discontent with his leadership. Over 80% of the respondents want President Abbas to resign. However, jailed activist Marwan Barghouti emerged as the most popular candidate as a potential successor to Abbas, with 39% of the polled population backing him.

The poll also highlighted public skepticism regarding the November parliamentary elections, with two-thirds of respondents believing that should the elections take place, they would not be free and fair. The Palestinian Authority has faced mounting pressure to reform, both domestically and internationally, as more countries formally recognize a Palestinian state.

Recent recognition from Canada, the UK, France, and Australia has brought the total to over 80% of UN member states. The survey's director, Khalil Shikaki, emphasized that the question of whether elections will occur depends on the international community. As long as the pressure persists, Shikaki believes the elections will proceed.