According to a Yediot Achronot report, 79% of the Israeli public supports the Gilad Shalit prisoner exchange deal, despite the heavy price being paid by Israel.

On the eve of the release of Gilad Shalit, Yediot asked “Do you support the Shalit prisoner release deal, which includes the release of 1,027 terrorists?”

The poll was conducted on October 16, 2011. 500 people representing a cross-section of Israeli adult society were questioned. The margin for error is +/- 4.4%.  The missing percentage is those who refused to respond or were non-committal in their response.

In Favor – 79%

Opposed – 14%

MEN

In favor – 74%

Opposed – 19%

WOMEN

In favor – 86%

Opposed – 5%

Why did we wait? Do you think the same deal could have been made some time ago?

65% – this could have been done in the past.

20% – this could not have been done in the past.

Which side do you think hat to compromise its principles more?

53% – Israel

20% – Hamas

20% – both sides gave in

How do you think the prime minister conducted himself? Did he capitulate to Hamas?

43% – conducted himself in a proper fashion for a state leader

49% – capitulated to Hamas

Do you think that citizens will face a security threats to Israelis as result of the deal?

50% – are fearful

48% – not fearful

What feeling best describes what you feel surrounding the Shalit deal?

44% – happiness

17% – excitement

15% – pride

14% – concern

5% –   humiliation

3% –   anger

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)