A recent survey has found that over half of European Jews feel ashamed of the Israeli government’s actions, with 54 percent expressing this sentiment compared to 39 percent in 2021. The American Joint Distribution Committee surveyed 879 individuals from 32 countries, including lay leaders and community professionals. The ongoing conflict in Gaza, where almost 40,000 Palestinian civilians have been killed, has led to increased criticism of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s handling of the situation. Despite this, 70 percent of respondents stated they would support Israel regardless of its government’s actions.
Another survey revealed that 70 percent of Israelis believe Netanyahu is responsible for failing to reach a deal to release captives held by Hamas in Gaza. With 116 captives still held in the enclave, there is growing pressure on the government to negotiate their release. Israeli protesters have been calling for an end to the conflict and a resolution to the captive situation. The majority of Israeli Jews and Palestinian citizens of Israel feel that Netanyahu should be doing more to reach a deal, with a significant portion holding him responsible for the current impasse.