| Published March 26, 2025
War-weary Palestinians have denounced the militant group as terrorists in a rare show of defiance said to have been organised by Hamas’s rival, Fatah
In a rare and significant display of public dissent, hundreds of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip have taken to the streets to protest against Hamas, the Islamist militant group that has governed the region since 2007. These demonstrations, emerging amid the recent collapse of a ceasefire with Israel, underscore the growing frustration among Gaza’s residents over the prolonged conflict and its devastating impact on civilian life.
Emergence of Protests
The protests began in the northern city of Beit Lahia, where demonstrators chanted slogans such as “Hamas out!” and “Hamas terrorists!” Participants carried banners reading “Stop the war” and “We want to live in peace.” Similar demonstrations were reported in other areas, including the Jabalia refugee camp and Khan Yunis. These public expressions of discontent are particularly noteworthy given Hamas’s history of suppressing opposition.
Hamas’s Response
In response to the protests, masked Hamas gunmen reportedly dispersed the crowds, with some instances of forceful intervention. Hamas officials have downplayed the significance of the demonstrations, suggesting that they were orchestrated by rival factions such as Fatah. Nonetheless, the visible and vocal nature of these protests indicates a significant shift in public sentiment within Gaza.
Backdrop of Renewed Conflict
The resurgence of public dissent coincides with the breakdown of a two-month ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. On March 18, 2025, Israel resumed airstrikes in Gaza, citing Hamas’s failure to adhere to ceasefire terms. These strikes resulted in significant casualties and further exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in the region.
Humanitarian Impact
The renewed hostilities have had a profound impact on Gaza’s civilian population. According to reports, over 50,000 deaths have been recorded since the conflict began, with a significant portion being women and children. The destruction of infrastructure and the displacement of residents have further strained the already dire living conditions in the enclave.
International Reactions
The international community has expressed concern over the escalating violence and the humanitarian situation in Gaza. Calls for restraint and renewed negotiations have been issued by various nations and organizations, emphasizing the need for a sustainable resolution to the conflict. The recent protests highlight the urgency of addressing the grievances of Gaza’s civilian population and the broader geopolitical tensions at play.
Conclusion
The unprecedented anti-Hamas protests in Gaza reflect deep-seated frustrations among Palestinians regarding the ongoing conflict and governance issues. As the situation evolves, it remains to be seen how these demonstrations will influence the political landscape in Gaza and the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
SOURCES: THE TIMES – Rare anti-Hamas protests erupt in Gaza as ceasefire crumbles
THE NEW YORK POST – Hundreds of Palestinians call for an end to war with Israel — and for Hamas to ‘get out’ of Gaza — in rare protests
THE TIMES OF ISRAEL – Hundreds in Gaza join rare protests against Hamas rule, call for an end to the war
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