Americans who get their news primarily from cable are the only people who believe that Israel is not committing a genocide in Gaza, according to a new survey that examined the relationship between attitudes toward the war and news consumption habits.
The survey, conducted by J.L. Partners and paid for by the YouTube-based news network Breaking Points, sheds light on the stark differences in opinions based on where individuals get their news. Cable news viewers tend to be more supportive of Israel’s war efforts, less likely to believe Israel is committing war crimes or genocide, and show less interest in the conflict overall. On the other hand, individuals who primarily consume news from social media, YouTube, or podcasts generally side with the Palestinians, believe Israel is committing war crimes and genocide, and consider the issue to be of significant importance.
Recent events surrounding the war in Gaza have brought tensions to a boiling point. While talks of a ceasefire are reportedly making progress, Israel has intensified its bombing campaign in Rafah. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has faced criticism for his actions, including attacking the International Criminal Court and announcing plans for a potential invasion of Rafah.
College students have also joined the conversation, with protests erupting on campuses across the country. Despite attempts to portray these protests as antisemitic, support for the movement has grown, particularly among young people who rely less on mainstream media for their news.
The survey highlights the dominance of cable news and social media as primary sources of information for Americans. While cable news remains a popular choice for many, social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram are also significant sources of news for a large portion of the population. This shift in news consumption habits has implications for how individuals perceive and engage with current events.
One of the key findings of the survey is the generational divide in attitudes toward the conflict in Gaza. Younger individuals are more likely to believe that Israel is committing genocide, while older individuals tend to hold different views. This divide is reflected in electoral concerns, with social media users and young people showing greater interest in the Gaza conflict as an election issue.
Despite the differing perspectives on the Gaza conflict, the survey also reveals a lack of viable political choices for voters. Both major political parties have taken stances that may not align with the views of a significant portion of the population, leading some individuals to question their participation in the electoral process.
Overall, the survey underscores the influence of media consumption habits on individual beliefs and attitudes toward complex geopolitical issues. As news consumption continues to evolve, it will be essential to consider how different sources of information shape public opinion and political engagement.
For more insights on the survey findings and to hear firsthand accounts from individuals involved in the conflict, you can access additional content on The Intercept’s website. Stay informed and engaged with diverse perspectives on critical global issues.