Hundreds of Palestinians in northern Gaza have staged a rare protest against Hamas, chanting slogans such as “Stop the war” and “Hamas, get out.” Videos circulating on social media show protesters marching through the rubble of Beit Lahia, a devastated area in northern Gaza.
A witness, speaking on condition of anonymity, described the protest as a spontaneous demonstration demanding a ceasefire. “People are exhausted. They have nowhere to go. Many were chanting against Hamas, saying, ‘Hamas, get out.’ Not everyone, but many expressed their frustration,” the witness said.
Another video on social media shows protesters chanting, “We do not want war,” while a banner reads, “Enough war.”
Senior Hamas official Bassem Naim acknowledged people’s right to protest against the war’s hardships but questioned the political motives behind the demonstrations. “Why aren’t similar protests happening in the West Bank?” he asked.
Earlier, Hamas’ rival faction, Fatah, called on Hamas to heed the voices of Gaza’s residents. Fatah leads the Palestinian Authority (PA) in the West Bank.
Destruction and Political Tensions
Israel’s military offensive in Gaza has resulted in over 50,000 Palestinian deaths. The war began after Hamas launched an attack on Israel on October 7, 2024, killing 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages. Israel’s retaliatory strikes have left much of Gaza in ruins.
After a temporary ceasefire in January, thousands of displaced Palestinians returned north. However, following renewed Israeli attacks on March 18, residents were once again ordered to evacuate.
One protester expressed despair: “Gaza is completely destroyed. Now they tell us not to stay in the north. Where should we go?”
According to Palestinian health officials, more than 700 people, mostly women and children, have been killed in Israeli attacks in recent days.
Hamas-Fatah Rivalry and Gaza’s Future
Hamas has controlled Gaza since winning elections in 2007, leaving little room for opposition voices. Many Palestinians fear repercussions if they criticize Hamas.
The Palestinian Authority (PA) claims that post-war Gaza should be under its governance. However, Hamas insists on participating in any new administration. Amid this power struggle, the voices of ordinary Gazans are growing louder, calling for an end to war and the return of peace.