Gaza Civilians Rise Up. Protests Against Hamas Grow Amidst War and Suffering

In a rare and bold display of defiance, Palestinian civilians in Gaza have begun openly protesting against Hamas, the militant group that has ruled the strip since 2007. Amid the devastation of the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, frustration over Hamas’ governance—marked by corruption, repression, and the triggering of a catastrophic conflict—has boiled over into public demonstrations.  

The Protests Emerge  

Reports from Gaza indicate that small but significant protests have erupted in recent weeks, with civilians condemning Hamas for their role in the October 7, 2023, attacks on Israel, which led to a brutal Israeli military response. Thousands of Gazans have been killed, and over a million displaced, with many blaming Hamas for provoking the war without a clear plan to protect civilians.  

Chants such as  Hamas is killing us! and  We want to live!  have been heard in Rafah and Deir al-Balah, where displaced families struggle with starvation and destroyed infrastructure. Some protesters have even called for international intervention to remove Hamas from power.  

Crackdown and Fear 

Hamas has historically suppressed dissent with force, and these protests are no exception. Witnesses report that Hamas security forces have violently dispersed gatherings, arresting demonstrators and accusing them of

collaboration with Israel. Despite the risks, the sheer desperation of civilians—facing famine, relentless bombardment, and Hamas’ authoritarian rule—has fueled the rare public outcry.  

Why Now? 

The protests reflect long-simmering anger at Hamas’ mismanagement of Gaza, including:  

Economic collapse. due to Hamas’ diversion of resources to military efforts.  

Humanitarian catastrophe. worsened by Hamas’ refusal to agree to ceasefires that could ease civilian suffering.  

Lack of accountability. Hamas leaders, many living in luxury abroad, have avoided the consequences of their decisions.  

International Reactions

While global media has largely focused on the Israel-Hamas conflict, these protests highlight a neglected narrative: many Gazans oppose Hamas but have been silenced by fear. Some analysts argue that post-war Gaza could see a stronger anti-Hamas movement if civilians survive the current crisis.  

Conclusion  

The Gaza protests against Hamas mark a pivotal moment in Palestinian politics. For years, Hamas has claimed to be the "resistance" fighting for Gazans—but now, its own people are accusing it of sacrificing them for ideology. Whether these demonstrations grow or are crushed could shape Gaza’s future long after the guns fall silent.