RT
For the first time in nearly two decades, the people of Gaza are raising their voices – not only against Israel but also against Hamas. In an unprecedented wave of protests sweeping across Beit Lahia, Khan Younis, Deir al-Balah, and Rafah, hundreds have taken to the streets, demanding an end to Hamas’ rule, restoration of their rights, and a future free from war and oppression. But as the protests grow, so does Hamas’ crackdown. Can this movement survive, or will Hamas crush it once again?
The demonstrations, which erupted in late March 2025, represent the largest grassroots challenge to Hamas since it seized control in 2007. Protesters chant for freedom, the end of Hamas’ regime, and liberation from the heavy burdens of war, poverty, and fear.
“We can’t live like this anymore,” said Mohammad, a resident of Nuseirat, whose full identity is withheld for safety reasons. “People are drowning in darkness, oppression, and sorrow. We’re exhausted by Hamas dragging us into death and destruction while they live comfortably.”
Since Hamas’ takeover in 2007, conditions in Gaza have worsened significantly – not solely due to the Israeli blockade imposed because of Hamas’ designation as a terrorist organization.
From 2007 to 2023, Gaza’s GDP per capita dropped by 54%, nearing levels last seen in 1994. Unemployment spiked from 40% in 2007 to a staggering 80% by 2024, and poverty soared to 65% by 2022. The war that erupted the following year only worsened the crisis.
Yet, it’s not merely economic hardship driving the unrest. Hamas has maintained an iron grip on Gaza for nearly two decades, suppressing dissent and silencing opposition. Now, frustration has reached a boiling point. Protesters have clear demands: ending Hamas’ rule, restoring basic human rights, and living free from the constant threat of war.
Years of frustration
Though these demonstrations are unprecedented in scale, they aren’t Gaza’s first attempt to challenge Hamas. Previous protests, notably the Bidna Na’ish (“We Want to Live”) movements in 2011 and 2015, called primarily for economic reform and political freedom. Each time, Hamas swiftly crushed these movements with violent crackdowns, arrests, and intimidation.
This time, however, the mood feels different.
“Hamas’ police are everywhere, but people aren’t backing down,” Mohammad said. “They know arrests and violence are inevitable, but we have nothing left to lose.”
Unlike past protests focused mainly on economic grievances, today’s demonstrations explicitly target Hamas’ political power. Protesters aren’t just asking for better living conditions – they want Hamas removed entirely. Interestingly, they blame Hamas, alongside Israel, for Gaza’s current devastation.
Gaza has weathered multiple wars, but the destruction since October 7, 2023, has pushed it to collapse. Following Hamas’ attack on Israel, the Israeli military response left vast areas in ruins.
No comments:
Post a Comment