Polling Reveals Deepening Democratic Divisions on Israeli-Gaza Conflict, as Biden Grapples with Public Pressure
ICARO Media Group
As the Israeli-Gaza conflict continues to escalate, a recent poll conducted by YouGov and The Economist reveals deep divisions among Democratic voters regarding their views on the war. The survey, conducted from January 21-23, encompassed 1,664 US adult citizens, specifically targeting those who voted for President Joe Biden in the 2020 election.
It found that 50% of Biden voters believe that Israel is "committing genocide against Palestinian civilians." In contrast, 20% of Biden voters disagreed with this assessment, while 30% remained uncertain. Among all registered voters, 32% viewed Israel's actions as constituting genocide, with 42% opposing this interpretation and 26% remaining undecided.
These findings add to the mounting pressure faced by President Biden, who has faced vociferous protesters at public appearances, demanding a ceasefire in Gaza. Progressive voices within Biden's own party have been increasingly vocal in their calls for the administration to take action to end the conflict.
The death toll in Gaza has surpassed 25,000 people, with Israel launching its offensive following the October 7 Hamas terrorist attacks, which claimed the lives of 1,200 people. The situation has fueled Democratic lawmakers' conversations about placing restrictions on the proposed $14 billion aid package to Israel, as concerns about the escalating death toll and humanitarian crisis in the region mount.
In a recent development, South Africa has formally accused Israel of committing genocide and has taken the matter to the International Court of Justice, where an ongoing trial is taking place. Israel, on the other hand, staunchly denies these allegations.
The polling data indicates a growing divide within the Democratic coalition, with significant portions of Biden voters expressing concerns about Israel's conduct in Gaza. As Congress deliberates over additional aid to Israel, the pressure on Biden to address these concerns and navigate a path toward de-escalation intensifies. The President finds himself grappling with increasingly vocal demands from both within his party and the general public to play a more active role in bringing an end to the conflict.