Introduction by Timothy Mattar, Trustee
27 November 2024
The Balfour Project is proud to share the findings of a recent survey entitled ‘Palestine, Israel and the British’, examining the views of the British public on the war in Gaza and solutions to the wider conflict. This timely research, organised by UKPAN and supported by the Balfour Project, reveals a significant shift in public opinion since 7 October 2023, with growing sympathy for the Palestinian position and strong support for action to promote equality, self-determination, and lasting peace in the region.
The results highlight a clear desire for the UK to play a more active role in addressing the injustices faced by Palestinians. A majority of respondents favour recognising Palestine as a state, reflecting widespread public support for advancing a two-state solution. The results also show a British public that is increasingly convinced that Israel’s war in Gaza breaks international law, includes genocidal acts by its military and disregards the need to minimise civilian casualties.
The survey shows that large proportions of the British public, and especially big majorities of Labour supporters, want the Government to:
- Demonstrate compliance with international law, supporting action taken by the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
- Officially recognise the State of Palestine, with many wanting that undertaken immediately.
- More strictly control or completely stop arms sales to Israel.
- Take more stringent and wider economic action against Israeli settlements.
- Take wider-scale legal and other action against settler groups, settlers and their supporters, especially those who commit violent acts of terrorism, and against those who promote or condone them.
This survey underscores the urgency for policymakers and Members of Parliament to align with the values and perspectives of the British people. It is a call to action: to champion international law, advocate for equal rights, and support the self-determination of all peoples in Palestine/Israel.
The Balfour Project remains committed to raising awareness and encouraging informed action toward a just and peaceful resolution. We promote peace with justice, security and equal rights for Palestinians and Israelis.
We invite you to explore the survey findings and join us in amplifying this vital conversation.
Click here to download the full report.
