A poll published in March 2026 by the Palestinian Center for Policy and Survey Research (PCPSR) found that 59% of Palestinians in the West Bank believe the October 7, 2023, attack led by Hamas on southern Israel was "correct." The same survey indicated 71% of West Bank respondents viewed the attack as a victory for Palestinians.
The poll, conducted between March 5 and March 10, 2026, surveyed 1,580 adults in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. It showed a significant disparity in support for Hamas between the territories, with 71% in Gaza expressing a positive view of the militant group, compared to 44% in the West Bank.
Regarding governance, 55% of Palestinians across both territories said they would vote for Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh over Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas in a presidential election. The findings highlight enduring political divisions and the impact of the ongoing Israel-Hamas war on Palestinian public opinion.
The PCPSR is an independent nonprofit think tank based in Ramallah. The war, which began with the Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023, has resulted in significant casualties and a humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with ongoing hostilities and ceasefire negotiations as of early 2026.
