American Jews overwhelmingly supported Israel in its actions against Hamas in Gaza,
according to a national survey conducted for the Anti-Defamation League (ADL).
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The survey found that 94% of respondents expressed sympathy for Israel over Hamas; only 1% for Hamas. Additionally, 81% expressed the belief that Hamas was responsible for the escalation of the violence; only 14% held Israel responsible.
Asked whether Israel’s response to Hamas rockets was appropriate or excessive, probably the major theme that has appeared in international critiques of Israel, 79% said it was appropriate, 17% excessive.
When asked about Israel’s right to self-defense versus the need to win the “hearts and minds” of the Arab world, 79% said that Israel’s responsibility to protect its citizens takes precedence.
“The survey findings strongly contradict those who disagreed with Israel’s actions against Hamas and claimed there was a sharp division in the American Jewish community,” said Abraham H. Foxman, ADL National Director. “The vast majority of the Jewish community clearly understands and overwhelmingly supports Israel’s effort to stop Hamas’ constant rocket attacks and cripple its terrorism infrastructure.
"The Jewish community is an open community where different views are welcome. It was unfortunate that some seem to have an interest in exaggerating the level of disagreement on this issue.”
ADL also explored American Jewish views of some of the key political issues facing Israel.
Two-thirds of those interviewed indicated that they supported Israel’s withdrawal from Gaza in 2005 and the same number continues to support that position today.
Meanwhile, 63% support the creation of an independent Palestinian state in the West Bank and Gaza while 32% oppose. On the question of who is doing more to bring peace to the region, Israel or the Palestinians, 91% said Israel and 4% said the Palestinians.
“The findings on the political issues speak of a continuing strong center in the American Jewish community that wants a secure Israel but also strongly supports efforts toward peace,” Mr. Foxman said.
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