Hundreds of people in Gaza protested against Hamas, the group that has ruled the territory since 2007. This was the largest anti-Hamas protest since Israel‘s war began.
The protesters took to the streets and demanded that Hamas step down. However, Hamas militants attacked them with guns and batons. Activists who usually criticize Hamas shared videos on social media showing young men marching in the streets of Beit-Lahia (northern Gaza) chanting “Hamas Out”.
Pro-Hamas supporters said that the protests were not important and accused participants of being spies. Hamas has not commented on the matter.
The protests started a day after Islamic Jihad gunmen fired rockets at Israel, which led to Israel evacuating large areas of Beit Lahia. This sparked anger among locals.
Israel resumed its military campaign in Gaza after nearly two months of ceasefire. They blame Hamas for refusing a new US offer to extend the truce. Hamas says that Israel abandoned the deal reached in January.
Since Israel’s military operations began, hundreds of Palestinians have died and thousands have been displaced. One local man, Mohammed Diab, lost his brother to an Israeli airstrike last year and had his home destroyed during the war.
“We refuse to sacrifice our lives for anyone or any agenda,” he said. “Hamas should step aside and listen to those who are grieving.”
Criticism of Hamas is growing in Gaza, both online and on the streets. However, many still support the group. This has made it hard to gauge how much support has changed.
Hamas was opposed long before the war, but this opposition was often kept hidden out of fear of reprisals. Many people are now openly criticizing the group.
One person from Gaza posted on Facebook: “Excuse me, but what is Hamas betting exactly? They bet on our blood – blood that the world views as just numbers.”
Hamas’ attack against Israel in October 2023 sparked the war in Gaza. Around 1,200 people were killed, mostly civilians, and 251 more were taken hostage.
The war has left Gaza’s healthcare, water, and sanitation systems in ruins. There is a shortage of food, medicine, fuel, and shelter.