Survey shows increased desire in Israelis to emigrate due to political disillusionment
Political mistrust and mental health concerns surge in Israel, as nearly 70% of Israelis report increased anxiety and many seeking psychological support
Recent surveys by the Freedom and Responsibility Institute at Reichman University, published by Yedioth Ahronoth, reveal a stark division in attitudes and a pervasive sense of insecurity among Israelis, with approximately one-fifth considering leaving the country.
This sentiment has particularly intensified since Oct. 7, signaling a growing disillusionment with political leadership and fears of existential threats.
The survey results show significant differences in threat perception based on political alignment. Right-leaning Israelis cite Iran, terrorist organizations and internal divisions as the top threats.
Conversely, those on the center and left are more concerned with the quality of political leadership, especially targeting Prime Minister Netanyahu and his administration, alongside similar fears of division and external threats.
“More than 60% of Israelis believe Israel faces an existential threat today,” said Israeli commentator Nadav Eyal, reflecting on the survey results.
He further elaborated that the largest threats vary dramatically across the political spectrum, with right-leaning individuals scarcely impacted by concerns over political leadership quality.
The poll also reveals a profound mistrust of the government, with 98% of center and left-leaning respondents expressing distrust, compared to about 66% of right-leaning individuals.
Additionally, 70% of participants reported increased anxiety and disrupted sleep since Hamas intensified its attacks.
About 1 million Israelis are seeking psychological support, indicating a significant mental health crisis against the backdrop of ongoing conflict and political instability.
Despite these concerns, the Israeli military still commands considerable trust, with about 77% support among right-leaning individuals and slightly higher at 80% among other groups, even as the military faces criticism for its handling of the situation.
“Israelis still take pride in their national identity and military strength, but these positive sentiments are overshadowed by the harsh realities the survey results present,” Nadav Eyal comments on the survey.
He noted that despite the military’s trust, national pride competes with serious concerns about the country’s future and leadership.
Source: Newsroom
