The public radio survey found that 57 percent of those questioned were in favour of the raids, while 23 percent were against. The rest expressed no opinion.

Palestinians say 11 people were killed and scores more injured in five separate Israeli air strikes in Gaza on Monday, figures which Israel has disputed.

Some Israeli commentators have expressed unease over the attacks on civilian areas while one minister in Prime Minister Ariel Sharon's coalition government has called for an apology and compensation for civilian victims.

The poll was conducted by the Maagar institute which interviewed a representative sample of 501 people. The poll has a 4.5 percent margin of error.

WAR.WIRE