Survey Finds 61% of Israelis See Jewish-Arab Relations Worsening Amid Doubts on Coexistence

A special survey conducted by the Medgam Institute and released ahead of a televised program on Tisha B'Av reveals a complex picture of Jewish-Arab relations and societal attitudes in Israel. The poll, conducted from July 2 to 5, 2026, among a representative sample of 601 Israeli adults, found that 61% believe relations between Jews and Arabs have deteriorated over the past year, with only 3% perceiving improvement. Furthermore, 59% of respondents are pessimistic about the possibility of genuine coexistence between the two groups, though 68% of Arab respondents express openness to close friendships with Jews.

The survey also highlights political and social divides. While 55% of Israelis prefer a democratic state over a primarily Jewish one (38%), opinions on the government's exemption law from military conscription are split, with 51% opposing it and 33% supporting it. Opposition to this law is particularly strong among Netanyahu opponents (77%) compared to his supporters (19%). Support for the Nation-State Law stands at 22%, rising to 32% if it recognizes the Druze community, while 19% oppose it outright. Among Jews, 58% support the law as is or with Druze recognition, whereas 54% of Arabs oppose it.

Social attitudes reveal that 74% of respondents view severe social boycott as equally serious as physical violence, with this perception stronger among Jews (77%) than Arabs (56%). Economic concerns dominate family stress factors, with 64% citing the high cost of living and 46% mentioning housing expenses. Criticism of government economic policy is higher among Arabs (29%) than Jews (21%).

Political affiliation and demographics influence views on coexistence: 88% of Netanyahu supporters doubt true coexistence is possible, compared to 55% of center-left respondents who remain hopeful. Younger Israelis (18-44) are more pessimistic (two-thirds) than those over 65 (43%). Comfort with close friendships across ethnic lines is limited among Jews (29%) but much higher among Arabs (68%). Gender differences also appear, with Jewish men more comfortable than women forming close Arab friendships.

The findings were discussed in a special episode of the KAN 12 program "Not What You Thought," hosted by Idan Amadi, which aimed to explore pressing societal issues and foster dialogue despite deep divisions.