In response to unprecedented protests in Gaza, Hamas has resorted to executions, kidnappings, and brutal crackdowns to suppress dissent. As frustration and anger grow among Palestinians, Hamas' hold on power appears more fragile than ever.
The militant group, which claims to fight for the people of Gaza, has turned against them, executing at least six protesters and publicly flogging others. Reports indicate that several demonstrators have been kidnapped, and many remain missing.
After more than a year of war that has claimed over 50,000 lives, Gaza witnessed its largest anti-Hamas protest last week. Thousands of men and women took to the streets, demanding an end to Hamas' rule, with chants of "The people do not want war.
The people do not want Hamas" echoing through the enclave.
Hamas responded with force, executing six demonstrators and inflicting public punishments to crush opposition. Among those killed was 22-year-old Oday Nasser Al' Rabays, a resident of Gaza City, who had openly criticised Hamas on social media and called for protests.
Reports suggest he was abducted, tortured for hours, and then returned dead to his family. Witnesses described how Hamas dragged his body to his home and warned others against speaking out.
Another protester was kidnapped, beaten, and shot in the legs before being left wounded in a public square as a warning to others. Despite the risks, Gazans continue to voice their outrage, insisting that they want an end to violence and displacement, even at great personal cost.
While Hamas has suppressed protests in the past, experts suggest that this time may be different. The war has left over 20 million people displaced and caused an estimated $18.5 billion in infrastructure damage. Many Gazans now believe they have nothing left to lose.
A September 2024 poll by the Palestinian Centre for Policy and Survey Research (PCPSR) indicated a sharp decline in support for Hamas. The group initiated the war after its October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, in which over a thousand people were killed.
Now, Hamas faces growing opposition from its own people, who no longer wish to endure its authoritarian rule and endless war.
According to UK-based Gazan activist Sam Habeeb, the latest demonstrations were the largest in Gaza’s history. "It is unacceptable to restrict the freedom of protest and kill and torture Uday Al Rabay, a protester. Not all people in Gaza are part of Hamas, and they have the right to express their views freely," he told the media.
Egyptian political analyst Dalia Ziada argued that this uprising is different from previous ones because Hamas is now isolated, and its media influence, funded by Qatar, has lost credibility. As Hamas struggles to maintain control, Gazans seem determined to resist its rule and push for change.
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