Poll: Most Palestinians think disengagement is good for peace
Survey also shows wide support for Abbas, but majority opposes PA action against militants.
By Haaretz Service and AgenciesA majority of Palestinians believe the disengagement plan can help Middle East peace efforts, a Palestinian opinion poll showed on Friday.
The Jerusalem Media and Communication Center survey also found 65.2 percent of those polled support the "state of calm" Palestinian groups agreed to maintain until the end of 2005 in response to the Palestinian Authority's truce with Israel.
Only 39 percent, however, support the PA taking action against militants who violate the cease-fire, while 55 percent oppose such action.
According to the poll, 52.8 percent of Palestinians see Prime Minister Ariel Sharon's unilateral withdrawal plan from the Gaza Strip as a step that can contribute to peace, as opposed to 33.4 percent who believe it is harmful.
The poll, which surveyed 1,200 residents of the West Bank and Gaza Strip, found that PA Chairman Mahmoud Abbas enjoys widespread support, with 76 percent of those surveyed saying he is doing a good job.
Fatah remains the most popular Palestinian faction, enjoying the support of 36 percent of Palestinians. Hamas is supported by 20 percent of Palestinians.
The poll has a three percent margin of error.
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