Hundreds join largest anti-Hamas protest since Gaza war began

Since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war, the Gaza Strip has witnessed its largest anti-Hamas protests, with hundreds taking to the streets demanding the organization relinquish power. These protests reflect public dissatisfaction with the current situation and concerns about the future. The demonstrators hoped to see a change in leadership and a move towards peace.

Reportedly, some masked Hamas militants, carrying guns and batons, forcibly dispersed the protesters and assaulted some of them. This action sparked further controversy and condemnation. Videos circulating on social media showed young people marching in the northern Gaza town of Beit Lahia, chanting "Get out, get out, Hamas get out." The heavy-handed response by Hamas has drawn criticism from human rights organizations.

Supporters of Hamas defended the organization, downplaying the significance of the demonstrations and accusing the participants of being traitors. As of now, Hamas has not commented on the matter. The protests occurred after Islamic Jihad fired rockets into Israel, prompting Israel to evacuate most of Beit Lahia, thus triggering the anger of local residents. The situation in Beit Lahia remains tense following these events.

After nearly two months of ceasefire, Israel has resumed military operations in Gaza, accusing Hamas of rejecting a new U.S. proposal to extend the ceasefire. Hamas, in turn, accused Israel of abandoning the original agreement reached in January. Since Israel resumed military operations on March 18, hundreds of Palestinians have been killed and thousands displaced. The renewed conflict has exacerbated the already dire humanitarian situation.

A resident of Beit Lahia named Mohammed Diab, whose home was destroyed in the war and whose brother was killed in an Israeli airstrike a year ago, stated, "We refuse to die for anyone, any party's agenda, or foreign interests." He also called for, "Hamas must step down, listen to the voices of grief, listen to the voices from under the rubble – these are the most authentic voices." Other videos showed protesters chanting "Down with Hamas rule, down with the Muslim Brotherhood rule." The growing discontent is palpable among the affected population.

Hamas has been the sole ruler of Gaza since 2007, a year after the group won the Palestinian elections and then violently expelled its rivals. Since the start of the war, public criticism of Hamas has been increasing in Gaza, both on the streets and online, and while some remain loyal, it is difficult to accurately gauge the extent to which support for the organization has shifted. Opposition to Hamas existed even before the war broke out, but most of it was hidden for fear of retaliation. The current conflict has brought these sentiments to the surface.

Muhammad Najjar from Gaza wrote on his Facebook, "I ask, what exactly is Hamas betting on? They are betting on our blood, and the whole world sees our blood as numbers. Even Hamas treats us as numbers. Step down and let us bandage our wounds." This poignant statement reflects the deep frustration and despair felt by many Gazans.

On October 7, 2023, Hamas attacked Israel, triggering the Gaza war. In the attack, approximately 1,200 people were killed, mostly civilians, and another 251 were taken hostage. Israel's response to the attack was to launch a military offensive in Gaza to destroy Hamas. The Hamas-controlled Ministry of Health stated that Israel's military operations have caused more than 50,000 Palestinian deaths. The majority of Gaza's 2.1 million people have also been displaced, many of them multiple times. The initial attack by Hamas continues to have devastating consequences for the region.

It is estimated that 70% of buildings in Gaza have been damaged or destroyed, and the medical, water, and sanitation systems have collapsed, with severe shortages of food, fuel, medicine, and shelter. The humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip is worsening, urgently requiring the attention and assistance of the international community. The long-term recovery of Gaza will require significant investment and sustained effort.