Story perspectives

44% See Israel as Top Threat; 57% Remain Hopeful

1/7/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Arab Center for Research and Policy Studies finds 44% view Israel as the greatest regional threat, with 21% naming the United States.
The Arab Opinion Index 2024–25 shows 84% believe Israeli policies threaten stability.
The Arab Opinion Index 2024–25 shows 80% view the Palestinian cause as a collective Arab issue.
The same index shows 77% believe United States policies threaten stability.
Despite concerns, 57% express optimism about their futures.

History

Historical Context

The 1967 Six-Day War reshaped Middle Eastern geopolitics, resulting in Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories. This conflict intensified Arab opposition to Israeli policies, with 84% of Arabs viewing them as destabilizing. The 1973 oil embargo united Arab nations against perceived Western support for Israel, a sentiment that persists today, as 77% of respondents see the U.S. as a destabilizing force in the region.

1 of 2

Story summary

The Arab Center for Research and Policy Studies finds 44% view Israel as the greatest regional threat, with 21% naming the United States.
The Arab Opinion Index 2024–25 shows 84% believe Israeli policies threaten stability.
The Arab Opinion Index 2024–25 shows 80% view the Palestinian cause as a collective Arab issue.
The same index shows 77% believe United States policies threaten stability.
Despite concerns, 57% express optimism about their futures.

1 / 2