Majority of Israeli Jews Support Continued Military Action in Lebanon

A recent survey by the Israel Democracy Institute (IDI) reveals that a majority of Jewish Israelis are in favor of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) maintaining military operations in Southern Lebanon. The November 2024 Israeli Voice Index, published by IDI’s Viterbi Family Center for Public Opinion and Policy Research, collected responses from 750 people between October 28 and November 4, showing strong national support for continued military engagement in the region.

When asked where Israel should focus its efforts in Lebanon under current circumstances, 54% of Jewish Israeli respondents expressed support for continuing the fighting, with only 38% favoring ceasefire negotiations. The poll reflects a consensus within Israeli society on the importance of security, particularly in light of recent conflicts with Iranian-backed groups.

Regarding the future governance of Southern Lebanon after the conflict, responses were varied. A significant portion (37.5%) believes that a multinational force should be responsible for security in the area, while 30.5% of respondents feel that the IDF should maintain control. Another 21.5% suggest that Lebanon’s own armed forces should take over, while a small percentage support the notion of a reduced Hezbollah presence.

The survey also addressed the outlook for displaced Israeli civilians who evacuated their homes near Israel's northern border. About 27% of respondents believe that these citizens will be able to return within six months to a year, with 23% expecting a shorter wait of three to six months and 16.5% anticipating a return within 30 to 90 days. This optimism reflects a hope for swift stabilization after the conflict’s end.

On Israel’s southern front, a substantial 62.5% of respondents view the IDF’s recent targeting of Hamas leadership as a significant step towards dismantling the terrorist organization’s control in Gaza. The assassination of Yahya Sinwar, a top Hamas figure, was perceived as a critical action in Israel’s broader effort to neutralize threats from Gaza.

Iran's involvement in the region remains a contentious issue, as Israel continues to face aggression from Iran-backed entities. The survey found that Jewish Israelis were split on the IDF's response to Iran's ballistic missile attack on October 1, with 43% seeing the retaliation as “appropriately strong” and another 43% describing it as “too weak.”

Israel has been engaged in extensive defense measures against Iran’s regional proxies including Hezbollah, Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, and the Houthis of Yemen since the deadly assault by Hamas on October 7, 2023. This attack tragically claimed approximately 1,200 lives, predominantly among Israeli civilians, leading to intensified defense efforts on multiple fronts.

The recent survey underscores the resilience and determination among Jewish Israelis to ensure national security and stability, despite ongoing challenges. This prevailing sentiment reflects a collective commitment to defending Israel’s borders and people against hostile forces.

Israel’s citizens remain united in their resolve, standing firm in support of the nation’s security strategies. Share this article or subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated on Israel’s ongoing journey toward peace and security.