Beth Sahour, West Bank / PNN /
A recent poll conducted by the Palestinian Center for Public Opinion (PCPO) in January 2026 indicates that most Palestinians in the West Bank view the congestion at King Hussein Bridge (Allenby/Al-Karama Crossing) as primarily driven by political and security factors, directly restricting their freedom of movement and exacerbating humanitarian and economic hardships.
The survey, led by Dr. Nabil Kukali and conducted between January 10 and 17 with a random sample of 350 respondents, found that 40.3% attributed the delays to Israeli security measures, while 36.3% blamed political pressure on the Palestinian Authority. About 19.1% cited weak coordination among relevant parties as a factor.
A total of 83% of participants said the congestion limits their mobility and worsens their humanitarian suffering. Nearly half reported that the delays negatively affect their travel experience, reflecting, according to the surveyors, a humanitarian dimension beyond the operational issues.
The poll also revealed a negative assessment of the crossing’s performance. About 47% said the Karama crossing fails to meet travelers’ needs, compared with only 14.7% who found the services adequate, highlighting calls for improvements in infrastructure and operational management.
Criticism of the VIP system was widespread: 53.5% described it as unfair and discriminatory between travelers, while 52.1% said it contributes to congestion. Nevertheless, a relative majority opposed fully abolishing the system.
One of the most striking findings was broad consensus on keeping the crossing open 24 hours a day. About 94% supported this measure to varying degrees, viewing it as the most effective way to reduce congestion and improve travel conditions.
On alternative management solutions, 38.1% favored an international crossing mechanism under UN supervision, 28.7% supported the establishment of an independent Palestinian-controlled crossing, and only 5% backed maintaining the current system.
Dr. Nabil Kukali said the results confirm that the Karama crossing crisis “is not merely technical or administrative but a political and humanitarian issue that directly affects Palestinians’ right to freedom of movement and their dignity while traveling.”
