New Survey Finds Over Half of Israelis Fear Identifying Abroad Since October 7 Attacks

A recent survey reveals that 52% of Israelis are apprehensive about identifying as Israelis while abroad, with 41% having already altered their behavior since the October 7 attacks. Changes include avoiding certain activities, canceling trips, or choosing different travel destinations. The survey, conducted in August 2026, also highlights societal divisions within Israel. While 73% of Israelis believe it is possible to build a unified society, trust in Jewish-Arab coexistence remains low, especially among religious and ultra-Orthodox Jews, where only 7% support coexistence. Conversely, 74% of Arab respondents and 48% of secular Jews endorse coexistence, and 88% of religious and ultra-Orthodox Jews believe in coexistence between secular and ultra-Orthodox communities.

Public confidence in Israel's international standing is mixed. Although 64% view the strategic relationship with the United States as strong, only 23% believe Israel effectively communicates its policies to international audiences, with 70% rating Israeli public diplomacy as ineffective. Despite these concerns, 33% of respondents see the development of a long-term national strategy for public diplomacy as key to improving Israel's global image, while 25% call for changes in government policy and decision-making processes. Only 14% think Israel's international status cannot be significantly improved.

The survey also shows strong public support (70%) for investing in Jewish communities worldwide, with priorities including encouraging aliyah (26%), protecting community security (23%), and supporting civil society organizations (17%). Economic issues remain the top priority for Israelis, with 38% urging the next government to focus on reducing the cost of living and strengthening the economy, ahead of national security (25%), promoting unity (13%), and resolving the military draft crisis (11%).