Palestinian militant groups have issued a warning on Thursday against individuals perceived as supporting Israeli interests following significant protests in Gaza against the ongoing war and Hamas’ governance. In recent days, hundreds of Palestinians in north and central Gaza have demonstrated, some even calling for “Hamas out”, marking a rare display of dissent against the group responsible for initiating a deadly offensive in the enclave following a raid on Israel in October 2023. More protests, which have garnered approval from Israel, are scheduled for later today.
An umbrella group known as the “Factions of the Resistance”, which includes Hamas, released a statement threatening repercussions for leaders of the perceived “suspicious movement” behind the street protests. The statement accused these individuals of overlooking the relentless actions of the Israeli occupation and implied that they share responsibility for the loss of Palestinian lives. While Hamas officials acknowledge the right to protest, they caution against exploiting these demonstrations for political gains or absolving Israel of accountability for decades of conflict and occupation in Palestinian territories.
Some protesters interviewed by Reuters expressed their weariness of continuous warfare, emphasizing the need for peace and basic necessities like food and water. They stressed that their opposition was not directed at the resistance but at the cycle of violence and suffering. Videos circulating on Wednesday depicted protests in various Gaza areas, indicating a growing unrest among the population.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu interpreted the protests as a sign of success in the military campaign against Hamas and encouraged Gaza residents to voice their discontent and demand the removal of Hamas from power. However, a Palestinian official cautioned against collaboration with Israel, emphasizing that protests should not undermine the resistance efforts against occupation.
The situation remains tense as both sides stand firm in their positions, with casualties on the rise. The conflict shows no signs of abating, and the fate of Gaza hangs in the balance amidst escalating tensions and divergent viewpoints on how to end the violence.
The narrow coastal area has been devastated, with many people now taking shelter in tents or damaged buildings, following the destruction of the region.
