Rising Dissent: Protests Against Hamas Intensify in Southern Gaza

Hundreds of Palestinians have taken to the streets in southern Gaza for the third day, expressing their opposition to Hamas and calling for an end to the ongoing war. Activists report rising dissent as protesters highlight the dire humanitarian conditions resulting from the conflict.

In a remarkable display of public sentiment, hundreds of Palestinians have demonstrated in southern Gaza for a third day, calling for the immediate removal of Hamas from power and an end to the ongoing conflict. Protesters marched through the streets chanting, "Out! Out! Out! All of Hamas, out!" in a clear repudiation of the armed group's leadership.

The protests began on Monday and were reportedly instigated by a younger generation fed up with Hamas's governance. Videos shared on social media documents scenes of demonstrators, many carrying pots from community kitchens, which symbolize their struggle against hunger and displacement. This wave of protests follows controversial remarks made by Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri, who implied in a recently circulated podcast that conflict with Israel is "eternal," raising frustrations among citizens.

Activists note that while dissent against Hamas has been escalating in northern Gaza, the group's influence in southern regions has previously stifled public opposition. However, as airstrikes from Israel continue unabated in places like Khan Younis, tension among citizens is palpable. Anonymous protests leaders, like a man known only as Alaa, expressed that citizens are tired of suicide from hunger and ongoing violence. Alaa, having faced previous detention for anti-Hamas activities, argues that resistance against occupation can take many forms beyond Hamas.

Fears of retaliation from Hamas loom large, as recent history shows a brutal crackdown on dissent. An incident earlier this year where 22-year-old Oday a-Rubai faced abduction and subsequent death serves as a grim reminder of the potential consequences for protestors. As the violence escalates, experts warn that continuous displacement and civilian casualties are likely to further fuel public dissent against Hamas.

Lawyer and activist Moumen al-Natour contends that overwhelming challenges—both humanitarian and administrative—are driving the people to revolt against what they perceive as oppressive rule. Reports from the United Nations highlight the dire humanitarian crisis, with over 57,000 displaced since mid-May, reflecting the shocking toll taken by the ongoing conflict. Since the outbreak of war in October, casualties continue to rise with the Hamas-run health ministry indicating over 53,000 deaths thus far.

Amid this chaotic landscape, it remains uncertain how the growing anti-Hamas sentiment will shape the future of governance in Gaza, as civilians implore the international community for assistance in securing peace for their lives and children.