In an unprecedented display of dissent, Palestinians in Gaza rallied against Hamas, voicing frustration over the prolonged war with Israel and calling for the armed group's removal from power.
Gazans Unite in Rare Protest Against Hamas Amid Ongoing Conflict
Gazans Unite in Rare Protest Against Hamas Amid Ongoing Conflict
Demonstrators in Beit Lahiya demand an end to the war and criticize Hamas's leadership as the conflict escalates.
In a significant show of protest this Tuesday, residents of the northern Gaza town of Beit Lahiya took to the streets, demanding an end to the ongoing war and expressing anger towards Hamas. As conflict with Israel continues to devastate the region, video footage verified by The New York Times reveals crowds gathering in dilapidated areas, holding signs expressing opposition to the war. Some demonstrators went as far as chanting for Hamas to leave.
While many Gazans attribute the suffering to Israel's actions, there's a growing sentiment that holds Hamas accountable for escalating the violence. The anger among the populace seems to have reignited following Israel's resumption of airstrikes last week, which ended a temporary cease-fire and convinced many that Hamas's refusal to negotiate was prolonging the misery.
Ahmed al-Masri, a 35-year-old construction worker who attended the protest, articulated the sentiment of the crowd: “We want to continue until the bloodshed stops and Hamas leaves the Palestinian scene.” Another demonstrator, Ibrahim, 32, who asked to remain anonymous due to fears of repression by Hamas, described inadvertently joining the protest while he was out to buy groceries.
This rare display of dissent marks a pivotal shift in public opinion within Gaza as residents grapple with the impact of the relentless conflict and the leadership under which they suffer.
