Hundreds of Palestinians in Gaza have taken to the streets demanding Hamas step down, as Israeli airstrikes continue to devastate the region. This marks the largest anti-Hamas protest since the conflict began.
Israeli airstrikes on Gaza have intensified, claiming countless lives daily, while Gaza’s residents face growing frustrations under Hamas’ rule. On March 26, a wave of large protests erupted across the enclave, with demonstrators calling for the ruling group, Hamas, to relinquish control. This marks the most significant anti-Hamas demonstration since the conflict between Israel and Gaza escalated.
Protesters, many of them youths, chanted slogans such as “Hamas, get out!” as they marched through the streets of Beit Lahiya, in northern Gaza. Videos shared on social media showed passionate crowds demanding the end of Hamas’ governance in the territory. However, Hamas militants, some armed with guns and sticks, attempted to disperse the crowds, forcing many to flee.
While the protests grew, pro-Hamas supporters downplayed the demonstrations, accusing the protesters of betrayal. Hamas itself has yet to issue a public comment on the protests.
The unrest comes just a day after the armed group Islamic Jihad launched rockets into Israel, escalating tensions and leading to Israeli forces clearing parts of Beit Lahiya. This coincided with the resumption of Israeli airstrikes, which had paused for two months, resulting in a mounting death toll and displacing thousands of Palestinians.
Mohammad Diab, a protester from Beit Lahiya, lost his home and brother to Israeli airstrikes and voiced his frustration with both sides of the conflict. “We are not ready to die for anyone’s agenda, whether that’s a foreign nation or any group,” he said. Diab called for Hamas to resign and to listen to the voices of the grieving people trapped under the rubble.
Since 2007, Hamas has ruled Gaza, following its victory in the Palestinian elections. However, the group’s grip on power has been increasingly questioned, especially after the Israeli aggression began in October 2023. While some Palestinians continue to fiercely support Hamas, a growing number of people are openly criticizing the group’s leadership. Many of these critics, however, remain silent out of fear of retaliation.
Liberty News’ international correspondent states that as the conflict rages on, Gaza’s residents find themselves caught in a devastating cycle, as protests against Hamas rise amidst the ongoing Israeli assault.
LND/BG
