Gazans Rise Up Against Hamas Amid Ongoing Conflict**

As Israeli airstrikes intensify, a rare wave of demonstrations emerges in Gaza, with residents calling for an end to both the conflict and Hamas's 18-year rule.**

After enduring nearly two decades of Hamas governance, the residents of Beit Lahia in northern Gaza have initiated bold protests against the ruling authority and the ongoing war. Starting on Monday night, following an Israeli airstrike that exacerbated fears in the community, hundreds took to the streets demanding an end to the violence and the removal of Hamas. “Hamas needs to go away,” voiced Ahmad al-Masri, one of the protest organizers, underscoring the urgency for change in the war-torn enclave.

These protests are significant as they represent the most assertive challenge to Hamas's power since the conflict reignited following the Hamas-led surprise attack against Israel on October 7, 2023. Unlike previous instances where dissent was met with severe repression, Hamas has, paradoxically, been less visible in enforcing order during these demonstrations, likely due to the dire circumstances surrounding the conflict and fear of retaliation from the community.

Spurred by a message circulated among locals that encouraged participation in the rallies, the protests began promptly in the afternoon on Tuesday. Many who rallied voiced broader frustrations beyond the immediate context of the war, indicating a deep-seated exhaustion from years of tension, loss, and despair. “We don’t have anything to lose,” remarked one participant, reflecting a mood of desperation and defiance.

As airstrikes continue to devastate infrastructure and collapse living conditions in Gaza, the protests not only challenge Hamas but also highlight the people's desire for peace amid chaos. Observers note that any heavy-handed response by Hamas could backfire, igniting even more anger amongst residents at a time when their situation is already critical. As the conflict escalates and divisions deepen, the future remains uncertain, yet these demonstrations may signal a turning point in Gazan civil society's relationship with its government.