What Palestinians Are Thinking (with Dahlia Scheindlin)
Jan 29, 2024
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Dahlia Scheindlin, a political scientist and public opinion expert on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, shares her insights on the complex emotions and sentiments shaping both sides. She discusses the impact of recent violence on Israeli society and the vulnerability felt by citizens. Exploring public opinion in Gaza, she sheds light on the intricacies of control and movement restrictions affecting Palestinians. Scheindlin also advocates for a confederated approach to self-determination while addressing the rise of religious extremism and the resilience of communities amidst ongoing tensions.
The shocking events of October 7th left Israelis in a state of shock and disbelief, questioning the lack of anticipation by Israeli authorities.
Arab citizens living within the pre-1967 borders of Israel showed a different response to the 2021 war with Gaza, expressing support for the people of Gaza and reflecting a mix of emotions and confusion.
Public opinion in Gaza prior to October 7th indicated a decline in support for Hamas, but the events led to a rally effect, with Palestinians expressing support for Hamas and their actions.
Deep dives
The aftermath of October 7th and the shock experienced by Israelis
After the shocking events of October 7th, Israelis went through a period of complete shock and disbelief. The nature of the attack, characterized by intimate violence and the unexpectedness of the attack, left civilians struggling to cope with the situation. The sense of shock and speechlessness permeated the country, with many questioning the lack of anticipation by Israeli authorities. This phase was followed by ongoing trauma as the war and accusations against Israel continued. Israelis constantly relived the events of October 7th through media coverage and new evidence emerging about the attack. The shock and ongoing war have created a complex and difficult environment for the country.
The response of Arab citizens of Israel to the war in Gaza
The 2021 war with Gaza saw a different response from Arab citizens living within the pre-1967 borders of Israel. While previous conflicts saw support for Hamas, this time it was different. Polls showed that up to 70% of Arab citizens expressed support for a more accurate term as solidarity with the people of Gaza. Demonstrations and riots initially started as solidarity with home evacuations in Sheikh Jarrah and escalated to clashes with Israeli forces. However, it is important to note that not all demonstrations were a direct support for Hamas. Many Arab citizens were parteried by the brutality and atrocities committed by Hamas, and they too suffered losses during the conflict. The response from Arab citizens reflects a mix of emotions, confusion, and a sense of being caught between opposing sides in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Public opinion in Gaza and the challenge of reliable polling
Public opinion in Gaza prior to October 7th was already showing a decline in support for Hamas. Factors like limited economic opportunities and frustration due to the Israeli restrictions contributed to this decline. However, after the events of October 7th, polling indicated a rally effect among Palestinians in Gaza, with a majority expressing support for Hamas and their actions. It is important to consider the lack of access to alternate news sources, which can shape public opinion and limit understanding of the events. Polling in an authoritarian state like Gaza presents challenges, but trends and fluctuations over time suggest that Palestinians do respond honestly in surveys. Nevertheless, it is essential to understand the limited range of ideas and the influence of the dominant discourse within a non-free society.
Gaza's Weapons and Living Conditions
The podcast discusses the surprising amount of weaponry in Gaza, including rockets being fired into civilian areas of Israel. It also mentions a documentary that highlighted the difficult living conditions in Gaza, with issues such as uncertain electricity, minimal economic opportunities, and poor education. However, there are pockets of wealth in Gaza, although they represent a small minority. These revelations raise questions about the effectiveness of the Israeli blockade and the security justification behind it.
Israel as a Jewish State and Democracy
The podcast explores the question of what it means for Israel to be a Jewish state while maintaining a commitment to democracy. It suggests that Israel can express its Jewish character through symbolic elements such as the Jewish calendar and Hebrew as an official language, without discriminating against other citizens. The discussion also touches upon the influence of religious and ultra-orthodox parties and the challenges they pose to the separation of religion and state. The guest expresses optimism about the resilience and solidarity of Israeli society, particularly in the face of crises, but acknowledges pessimism regarding the future of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Pollster and political scientist Dahlia Scheindlin has worked extensively with public opinion polls of both Palestinians and Israelis. Listen as she talks with EconTalk's Russ Roberts about the dreams, fears, anger, and frustration of both sides. Along the way she analyzes the mood of Arab-Israelis and what optimism, if any, she has for a peaceful coexistence between Israelis and Palestinians in the aftermath of October 7th.
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