According to a poll conducted by the American Hasbara program entitled “Project Israel” in coordination with the Foreign Ministry, American support for military operations in defense of its people is up. Approximately 61 percent of Americans are for continued operations intended to protect Israelis against Kassam attacks. Another 45 percent believe that Palestinians are guilty of the attacks in Gaza as opposed to 15 percent who hold Israel responsible. Americans are aware of events taking place in Israel as 64 percent heard about the abduction of Gilad Shalit and 58 percent about Israeli attacks in Gaza. The Foreign Ministry said that the results of the survey were positive and very encouraging.