Nearly ​half of Canadians ​believe Israel is ​committing ​genocide in Gaza

A new poll by Leger reveals that nearly half of Canadians, 49 percent, believe Israel is committing genocide in the Gaza Strip. The survey, conducted last weekend (June 6-8, 2025), asked Canadians and Americans their views on the conflict.

The poll found that 23 percent of Canadians "strongly agree" and 26 percent "somewhat agree" with the genocide claim. In contrast, 21 percent disagreed, while 30 percent were unsure or chose not to answer.

Political affiliations showed a clear divide: Conservative supporters were less likely to agree (37 percent), while over 60 percent of Liberal, NDP, Green, and Bloc Québécois supporters believed Israel's actions amount to genocide.

In the U.S., 38 percent of respondents shared the view that Israel is committing genocide. Democrats and younger Americans (under 35) would likely hold this opinion.

Despite these strong views, more than half of Canadians (54 percent) don't closely follow news on the Middle East conflict. However, 49 percent still feel they understand the situation well. Opinions on media coverage were divided, with similar percentages believing it was balanced, pro-Palestinian, or pro-Israel.

Pessimism about a lasting peace also emerged, with 41 percent of Canadians believing it cannot be achieved, compared to 28 percent who remain hopeful.

This poll comes as the Canadian government faces pressure to act on the conflict, having recently taken measures against Israeli cabinet ministers accused of inciting violence in the West Bank.