Belal Abu Zaid, a resident of northern Gaza, recently joined hundreds of others in protesting against both Israel and Hamas. He feels that both entities have contributed to the suffering in his homeland. “We are oppressed by the occupation army and we are oppressed by Hamas,” he stated, referencing Hamas’ attacks on October 7, which triggered the ongoing conflict.
In Beit Lahia, locals organized one of the largest protests against Hamas since the October attacks. Demonstrators voiced their frustrations, chanting slogans like “Hamas terrorists” and “We want an end to the war.” Similar protests followed in Deir al-Balah, where banners declared: “We Want to Live” and “Stop the Genocide.”
Participants expressed their anger at both Israel and Hamas for the devastation in Gaza. Mahmoud Haj Ahmad, a surgeon, pleaded for peace from both sides. His words echoed a sentiment shared by many: Hamas has held power for too long, and it’s time for change.
The statistics are alarming. The health ministry in Gaza reports over 50,000 Palestinian deaths since the conflict escalated, following the collapse of a two-month ceasefire. This has led to a humanitarian crisis that has affected nearly all of Gaza’s 2.1 million residents. UN spokesman Stéphane Dujarric indicated that around 90% of Gaza’s population has been displaced since the conflict intensified.
Amid this chaos, many Gazans are wary of speaking out against Hamas, fearing backlash. Raed Abu Hamouda highlighted the challenges of expressing dissent in an environment where criticism can lead to accusations of treason. He pointed out the desperate need for unity among Palestinians, calling for a government that might better represent their interests and receive international support.
The sentiment expressed in these protests marks a notable change in a region where dissent against Hamas has often been stifled. On the contrary, reports of protests have highlighted the tension within the Gaza Strip, where residents see themselves as victims of both the Israeli military response and Hamas’s governance.
In a speech addressing these developments, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu noted, “We’ve seen something we’ve never seen before—open protests in the Gaza Strip against Hamas rule.” This marks a significant moment, as Hamas has controlled Gaza since 2007 after defeating the rival Fatah party. The group’s history is rooted in a broader struggle that dates back to the late 1980s when it emerged from the Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt.
Despite the ongoing struggles, many still support Hamas for its role in resisting what they view as Israeli occupation. A local supporter stated that as people grow more concerned about basic necessities like food and water, larger protests may diminish.
The dynamics of public opinion in Gaza are shifting, with recent surveys showing fluctuating support for Hamas. In June, 57% of Gazans believed the October 7 attack was a justified act, down from 71% earlier in the year. As the situation continues to evolve, the central demand among demonstrators remains clear: a desire for life, dignity, and an end to violence.
Amidst the chaos, Belal Abu Zaid articulated a universal call for humanity: “Enough war, enough exhaustion, enough humiliation.” In a place where fear often holds sway, the collective voice rising in protest signals a growing demand for change that resonates beyond borders.
For more insights, you can check a report by the Palestinian Center for Policy and Survey Research detailing the evolving sentiment among Gazans.
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