A new poll indicates that a majority of Americans support US recognition of Palestinian statehood, with Democrats and a substantial number of Republicans expressing approval.

The six-day survey, which concluded on Monday, found that 59 percent of respondents believe the United States should formally recognise a Palestinian state. Meanwhile, 33 percent opposed the move, and the remainder were either unsure or declined to answer.

Support among Democrats was overwhelming, with 80 percent in favour of recognition. Among Republicans, opinion was more divided: 41 percent supported recognition, while about half – 53 percent – opposed it.

The poll comes amid a wave of international support for Palestinian statehood, with countries including Britain, Canada, France and Australia formally recognising a Palestinian state in recent weeks. Israel has strongly criticised these moves.

The survey also revealed that Americans may be willing to credit former President Donald Trump for any successful peace efforts. About 51 percent of respondents agreed that Trump “deserves significant credit” if his plan achieves lasting peace, compared with 42 percent who disagreed.

Interestingly, while only 5 percent of Democrats approve of Trump’s overall performance in office, one in four said he should receive recognition if the peace plan succeeds.

The findings suggest that, across party lines, many Americans are increasingly open to engaging with the Palestinian question, reflecting a notable shift in public opinion on the longstanding conflict.

#Al Jazeera