Majority of Israelis Support Regional Agreement Including Palestinian Resolution, Poll Finds
A recent iPanel survey reveals that 59% of Israelis support a regional diplomatic agreement including a resolution to the Palestinian conflict, viewing security and diplomacy as intertwined.
A new survey conducted by the "Women Wage Peace" movement reveals that a clear majority of the Israeli public supports a regional diplomatic agreement that includes a resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The findings indicate that the public views diplomatic efforts and security not as competing alternatives, but as complementary components of a long-term strategy.
Public Support Despite the Conflict
Conducted between August 16 and August 24, 2026, by iPanel with 1,473 respondents, the poll shows that 59% of the public support a regional diplomatic arrangement that incorporates a solution to the Palestinian issue. This figure is nearly identical to the 60% support recorded for a regional agreement that excludes the Palestinian conflict—a mere one percent difference. This demonstrates that resolving the Palestinian issue remains a legitimate goal for a broad segment of the population, even in the wake of the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip and the October 7 terrorist attacks.
Security and Diplomacy Go Hand in Hand
Respondents strongly rejected the notion that military might alone can guarantee the nation's safety. According to the survey, 62.5% agree that military achievements are insufficient to ensure long-term security, while 69% believe the primary role of the IDF is to create favorable conditions for diplomatic agreements that protect the state. Furthermore, 48% agree that only political accords can permanently end wars and secure the future.
"The research demonstrates that the public does not view security and diplomatic arrangements as separate tracks," said Orna Shragai, co-manager of Women Wage Peace. "The public supports a regional arrangement even when it includes a solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, demands clear security conditions, and expects the leadership to take the initiative."
Clear Security Prerequisites
While backing diplomacy, the public insists on strict security safeguards. An overwhelming 94% view the dismantling of the military and governmental capabilities of Hamas in the Gaza Strip as an important or essential condition for any future accord, with 77% calling it absolute. A matching 94% demand the preservation of the IDF's freedom of operation to thwart threats, and 83% emphasize the need for formal security guarantees and full backing from the USA.
Expectations from the Government
Reflecting a desire for proactive leadership, 68% of respondents believe the government of Israel should take the initiative in promoting a regional agreement rather than waiting for developments to dictate terms. Additionally, 61% state that responsible leaders must present a vision of peace alongside military plans as the nation looks toward the upcoming Knesset elections.
