IDF Claims Hamas Falsified Gaza Poll Results

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have released documents purportedly showing that Hamas has been falsifying public opinion polls conducted by the Palestinian Center for Policy and Survey Research (PCPSR) to inflate its support and mask organizational decline. The documents, found in Gaza, display discrepancies between original poll results and the falsified published figures, significantly exaggerating support for Hamas and its leaders, as well as approval for the October 7 attacks. Despite the IDF's accusations, prominent Palestinian pollster Khalil Shikaki, head of PCPSR, denies any involvement, asserting that it is 'highly unlikely' Hamas manipulated the polls and vowing to investigate the claims. The IDF emphasizes that the documents do not show PCPSR's complicity, but rather Hamas's clandestine efforts to influence public opinion. The revelations suggest a systematic attempt by Hamas to deceive both local and international audiences about its popularity and the level of support for its actions.