Israelis overwhelmingly support military action against Iran

Israeli Public Supports War with Iran, Poll Suggests

A recent poll conducted by the Israel Democracy Institute found that 93% of Jewish-Israeli respondents support the strikes on Iran, while 74% back Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s leadership. The survey also revealed a growing public clamour for war, with many Israelis expressing enthusiasm for military action against the country.

In response to the escalating tensions, anti-war activists have faced threats and violence. Itamar Greenberg, a 19-year-old Israeli activist, was spat on in the street and is the target of an online hate campaign. Greenberg described being arrested and strip-searched during a protest, stating that such incidents are intended to humiliate him.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has used apocalyptic language to describe the Iranian threat, drawing parallels with biblical foe Amalek. Tehran claims its missiles and drones have hit military sites, symbolic infrastructure, and even Netanyahu’s office, while Israeli officials have denied many of these assertions.

The Israel Democracy Institute poll suggests that public support for war is increasing, despite concerns about the potential consequences. Lawmakers from various parties have expressed fear for their safety due to physical threats and attacks from extremist groups.

In contrast to past opposition to the Gaza war, criticism of the Netanyahu government’s handling of Israeli captives in Gaza was more socially acceptable. However, anti-war activists like Greenberg face a different reality, with many facing intimidation and violence.

Netanyahu’s office has dismissed Iranian claims about hitting his office as “fake news”, citing reporting restrictions that make confirmation difficult. The situation remains volatile, with the public clamouring for war and anti-war activists facing threats and violence.

Source: Al Jazeera