JERUSALEM (JTA) — One-third of Israel’s Jewish population does not consider Arab citizens of the country to be Israelis, according to a newly released survey.
The Israeli Democracy Index 2011 survey conducted by the Israel Democracy Institute also found that nearly 78 percent of Israeli Jews believe that a Jewish majority should be required for making critical decisions concerning not just peace and security, but also socio-economic issues and issues of governance. The survey showed that some 52 percent do not believe there is discrimination against Arabs in Israel.
After the results of the annual report were released, Israeli President Shimon Peres said, "We must create hope and vision, both in diplomacy and social welfare, for the good of the citizens of Israel. There are gaps between rich and poor, and between today and tomorrow, and just as we must fight for social-economic equality we must fight for and yearn for peace."
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