Palestinians Lose Trust in Hamas and Abbas but Continue Supporting Iran

A recent survey by the Palestinian Center for Policy and Survey Research reveals a significant decline in support for Hamas and a deep crisis of confidence in Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas and the Palestinian Authority itself. Overall backing for Hamas has dropped sharply to 24%, down from 35% about ten months ago, with an even steeper decline in the West Bank where support fell from one-third to one-fifth. Meanwhile, Fatah also holds only 24% support, and 44% of respondents believe that neither faction deserves to lead.

Despite disillusionment with the Gaza war, Palestinians remain opposed to disarming Hamas before a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. Although Hamas agreed to the "Mladenov Plan" and disarmament as part of a Trump administration initiative, 72% of Palestinians reject disarming Hamas prematurely, fearing it would reignite conflict. Support for armed struggle has dropped to a four-year low of 27%, while backing for negotiations has risen to 44%.

Support for a two-state solution remains steady at 44%, increasing to 56% when based on 1967 borders. However, 58% believe the solution is no longer feasible due to settlement expansion. In the West Bank, frustration extends beyond politics to economic hardships, with nearly half blaming the Palestinian Authority for the severe fuel crisis and long queues at gas stations, compared to 26% who blame Israel.

Despite waning trust in local leadership, the majority of Palestinians continue to support Iran and the Houthi movement, reflecting ongoing alignment with regional allies. The survey highlights a complex and evolving Palestinian public opinion landscape amid political, economic, and security challenges.