Only 17% of Israelis, 21% of Palestinians believe peaceful coexistence is possible, poll finds

A recent Pew Research Center report indicates that only 17% of Israelis and 21% of Palestinians in the West Bank and East Jerusalem believe peaceful coexistence between Israel and an independent Palestinian state is possible. This marks the first time since 2013 that over half of Israelis (56%) explicitly stated such coexistence is impossible, a sentiment shared by 68% of Palestinians surveyed. The survey, conducted from March to May, did not include Gaza due to security concerns.

Among those who rejected the possibility of peaceful coexistence, respondents on both sides frequently pointed to disputes over the land, decades of violence, and deep distrust.

Israelis often cited security concerns and fears of an independent Palestinian state becoming hostile, while Palestinians commonly pointed to Israeli control, settlements, and movement restrictions as obstacles. A small minority on both sides expressed a desire for peace, the need to avoid further bloodshed, and the belief that coexistence is the eventual outcome, with some Palestinians highlighting potential economic benefits.