How Public Opinion in Israel Shifted: Insights from Post-Cross-Border Attack Opinion Polls

The cross-border attack on October 7, 2023, had a significant impact onIsraeli society. This chapter scrutinizes the evolution of Israeli public sentiment sinceOctober 7, drawing on the findings of various Hebrew-language Israeli media outletsreleased in the initial six months. Since that date, Israeli public sentiment has vehementlyheld Prime Minister Netanyahu accountable for his directives, prompting callsfor his resignation and for new elections to be held. While influential patriotic figureslike Gantz and Bennett have emerged as potential contenders for the anti-Netanyahuvote, consensus remains elusive on who will succeed Netanyahu. Moreover, Israelipublic sentiment is deeply divided on the prolonged Gaza conflict, negotiations withHamas, a ceasefire, and the resolution of the Palestinian issue. Consequently, Israelipolitics is markedly polarized over two pivotal domestic and foreign policy matters:post-Netanyahu leadership and the Palestinian question.