A recent survey from the Palestinian Center for Policy and Survey Research (PSR), polling 1,270 respondents in the West Bank and Gaza between May 1–4, 2025, reveals that most Palestinians oppose any peace deal perceived to weaken Hamas—even as war, displacement, and humanitarian collapse continue. The findings show resilience of the militant group in public opinion despite growing dissent under extreme conditions.
The PSR poll reports strong resistance to forced Hamas disarmament or leadership removal—even if such steps might end conflict. 85% in the West Bank and 64% in Gaza oppose disarming Hamas, and 65% oppose removing its military leaders as a condition for ending the war.
Anti-Hamas protests surged across Gaza beginning March 25, 2025, driven by desperation over war and displacement. Despite some support for protests—48% of Gazans endorse them—majorities still believe Hamas retains legitimacy or cohesion as alternatives are weak or nonexistent.
Support for Hamas has declined: satisfaction rates dropped from 52% in December 2023 to 43% in May 2025. Confidence in its victory and postwar governance also declined. Still, most Palestinians expect Hamas to remain in control after the war—a possible testament to the lack of viable leadership alternatives.
At the same time, popular support for armed struggle remains strong. When presented with options, 41% favored armed resistance over negotiation (33%) or nonviolent resistance (20%). Support for a two-state solution remains limited and skeptically viewed, with 61% believing it is no longer practical.
These poll findings underscore a paradox: Palestinians remain opposed to peace terms that would undercut Hamas—even as their suffering grows and opposition to its governance increases. That reflects nationalistic loyalty, fear of power vacuum, religious identity, and the absence of credible alternatives to fill the void if Hamas loses control.
