US Poll Shows Majority Support Recognition of Palestinian State

A new Reuters/Ipsos poll has revealed that 58 percent of Americans believe all United Nations member states should recognize Palestine as an independent state.

The findings come as Israel and Hamas weigh the possibility of a ceasefire in the conflict that has raged for nearly two years.

The six-day survey, which concluded last Monday, coincided with announcements from Canada, Britain, and France confirming their plans to formally recognize a Palestinian state.

This diplomatic shift has added further pressure on Israel amid worsening hunger and humanitarian conditions in Gaza.

International attention remains fixed on whether Israel and Hamas can finalize a deal for a 60-day ceasefire. Such an agreement would halt hostilities, enable the release of around half of the remaining Israeli hostages, and open the way for increased humanitarian aid deliveries.

Several allies of the United States, including Britain, Canada, and Australia, warned last week that the humanitarian crisis in Gaza has reached unprecedented levels. Relief organizations have echoed these concerns, warning that the enclave’s population is on the brink of famine.

The UN Human Rights Office has stated that Israel is not allowing sufficient supplies into Gaza to prevent widespread hunger. Israel, however, rejects responsibility, claiming that Hamas has diverted aid shipments.

The poll found that 65 percent of Americans believe the United States should take direct measures to help civilians in Gaza facing starvation, while 28 percent opposed such action.

Furthermore, 59 percent of respondents said Israel’s military response in Gaza has been excessive, compared with 33 percent who disagreed. In a similar Ipsos survey conducted in February 2024, 53 percent considered Israel’s actions excessive, while 42 percent disagreed.