Rising Anti-Hamas Sentiment in Gaza as Public Dissent Grows

As anti-Hamas protests surge in Gaza, Palestinians are increasingly vocal about their discontent with the group's nearly 20-year rule. The protests, often met with violence, reflect a deepening crisis and widespread calls for accountability.

The streets of Gaza are echoing with a chorus of dissent as more residents demand an end to Hamas's rule, showcasing a notable shift in public sentiment against the group that has governed the territory for almost two decades. The protests, characterized by chants like "All of Hamas, out!" reflect the frustration of a population grappling with deteriorating living conditions and ongoing conflict, blaming Hamas for the dire circumstances that have afflicted Gaza for over 70 years.

Prominent figures like Moumen al-Natour, a Gaza lawyer and former political prisoner, have openly criticized the organization, asserting that the global community has misunderstood the dynamics at play in Gaza. "We didn't choose Hamas," he declared from his temporary tent, symbolizing the housing crisis gripping the region. Al-Natour urges his fellow citizens to stand up against the oppressive regime, stating, “To support Hamas is to be for Palestinian death, not Palestinian freedom.”

However, speaking out against Hamas comes with grave risks. Recently, the assassination of 22-year-old Oday al-Rubai, who was brutally tortured before his death, has underscored the dangers faced by dissenters. Al-Rubai’s family holds Hamas responsible, citing his participation in anti-Hamas demonstrations as the motivation behind his murder. His haunting final video, in which he expressed fear for his life, resonates with many who feel trapped in Gaza’s cycle of violence and repression.

The situation for critics of Hamas is perilous, as illustrated by the brutal assault on Amin Abed, who now resides in Dubai after being severely beaten for his outspokenness. He insists that Hamas’s grip on power is waning, expressing optimism that the tide is shifting against the militant group, although the path ahead remains fraught with danger.

In a particularly stark display of resistance, protests have erupted in Beit Lahiya, where locals challenged Hamas fighters attempting to launch rocket attacks from residential areas. Residents successfully repelled armed militants, refusing to allow their homes to become war zones, encapsulating the growing rebellion against the group's tactics.

Despite the risks, Gazans are increasingly directing their anger not only at Hamas but also at Israel, underscoring the duality of their struggle. While the recent protests may not constitute a full-fledged rebellion, they illustrate a populace hardened by years of suffering, ready to disturb the status quo. As public dissent grows, Gaza appears to be on the brink of a significant shift, leaving Hamas to grapple with an evolving reality it may no longer control.