Most Israelis want assassination of Hamas leaders

The survey found that 82 percent of people questioned suggested the military "begin assassinating Hamas leaders" given that the armed wing of the faction has claimed a series of attacks, including one in which the soldier was taken.

Another 52 percent of respondents favoured the bombing of targets in the Gaza Strip, even if this could lead to a loss of civilian lives, while 53 percent thought the military should reoccupy parts of the territory.

Only 20 percent thought Israel should release Palestinian prisoners in return for the release of the 19-year-old soldier -- compared to 53 percent who favoured negotiations in a poll published last Friday.

Forty-seven percent of respondents said there were dissatisfied with the performance of Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, who is facing the first real test of his leadership in the crisis.