November 14, 2003

Abstract: (CPOD) Nov. 14, 2003 - A majority of West Bank and Gaza residents believe a truce is necessary in the area, according to a poll by the Palestinian Centre for Public Opinion. 66 per cent of respondents support a ceasefire with Israel.

(CPOD) Nov. 14, 2003 - A majority of West Bank and Gaza residents believe a truce is necessary in the area, according to a poll by the Palestinian Centre for Public Opinion. 66 per cent of respondents support a ceasefire with Israel.

Palestinians are split over recent violent acts in the Middle East. 44.6 per cent of respondents oppose the current Intifada, while 42.6 per cent support it.

The latest uprising began three years ago, when Ariel Sharon --then opposition leader and now current prime minister-- visited a Jerusalem holy site, a gesture many Palestinians deemed as a "provocation." More than 3,000 Palestinians and Israelis have died in the last 36 months of fighting. The Hamas movement has ruled out a suspension of attacks.

Israeli prime minister Ariel Sharon is to meet with Palestinian counterpart Ahmed Qorei in the following days.

Polling Data

Do you support or oppose a ceasefire with Israel?

Support	66.0%
Oppose	29.7%

Do you support or oppose the continuation of the Intifada against Israel?

Support	42.6%
Oppose	44.5%

Source: Palestinian Centre for Public Opinion
Methodology: Interviews to 669 Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, conducted in November 2003. Margin of error is 3.8 per cent.