Research ahead of 7 October identifies specific areas where compromise may still exist
Even amid the current devastation in Gaza and Israel, new research suggests there may be more in common between Israelis and Palestinians than conventional wisdom suggests. A comprehensive study conducted in 2022 found dozens of potential peace deal configurations that both sides preferred over the status quo.
The study, published in PNAS Nexus on January 21, 2025, analyzed survey data from nearly 1,900 Israeli and Palestinian respondents to identify specific components of a potential peace deal that could gain public support in both countries.
The study found that of 256 possible peace deal configurations, both sides considered 55 to be preferable to current conditions. Most notably, research shows that practical changes affecting daily life – such as freedom of movement, access to holy sites and the release of prisoners – garner more support than traditional political solutions such as territorial adjustments.
The study revealed clear differences in how each group viewed the current situation. Among Palestinians, 95% prefer at least one proposed peace deal to the status quo, with 41% ranking the current situation as their least preferred option. Opinion in Israel is more divided, with 75% supporting some form of change and 25% favoring the current arrangement.
Demographics play an important role in shaping preferences. Among Israelis who prefer the status quo, the majority are young Jewish men, with a median age of 37.5 years. Those most eager for change tend to be older (median age 44), predominantly female, with a higher proportion of Arab Israelis.
The study also examined how exposure to violence affects willingness to compromise. Israelis who have personally experienced conflict-related violence, or know someone who has, show significantly less flexibility on some issues, particularly settlements and the status of Jerusalem. This finding is particularly relevant in light of recent events.
Regional differences among Palestinians are also evident. Despite historically experiencing higher levels of conflict, residents of Gaza have shown a more open attitude to certain compromises than residents of the West Bank, although researchers note that this may be influenced by other socioeconomic factors besides violence.
Gender becomes another important factor. Data shows that women on both sides, especially Israeli women, are more willing to compromise than men. Age also played a role, with older respondents generally showing greater flexibility than younger respondents.
While the researchers acknowledge that positions may have changed significantly since Oct. 7, the components they believe are most promising — including mutual access to religious sites, prisoner releases, mutual recognition between states and freedom of movement — may still remain in place. Relevant to future negotiations.
The study was conducted before the recent escalation of violence, providing a unique baseline for understanding how people in both countries viewed potential peace arrangements during a period of relative stability. This could provide valuable insights into future peacebuilding efforts after current hostilities end.
The study is one of the most detailed analyzes to date of specific peace deal components that have the potential to bridge the gap between Israeli and Palestinian positions, even as immediate prospects for peace appear remote.
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