Gazans Voice Dissent Against Hamas Amid War Escalation

For two consecutive days, residents in Gaza have protested against the Hamas leadership, expressing their frustrations over the collapse of a cease-fire and the persistent war.

Residents of Gaza have taken to the streets for a second day of protests, expressing their dissent against both Hamas and the ongoing conflict with Israel. The demonstrations, which began on March 26, 2025, highlight the growing frustration among Gazans as they grapple with the aftermath of the recent breakdown of a temporary ceasefire.

These protests are particularly significant, as they mark some of the rare acts of dissent against Hamas, which has governed the territory for 17 years with stringent control. Following the attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, which initiated the current 15-month long conflict, many Gazans had hoped for a restoration of peace that never materialized.

Initially sparked by emotional responses to the conflict, the protests have started to gain traction and become more organized, driven by calls on social media for collective action against the group's management of the war. Eyewitness accounts from the northern town of Beit Lahiya indicate that hundreds have participated in these protests, chanting slogans such as, “Hamas out! Hamas is terrorism!” and “We want to live freely.”

Small gatherings were also reported in Gaza City, with demonstrators echoing similar sentiments. Verified videos from Beit Lahiya highlighted the damaged streets as a backdrop for the protests, showing a community urging for change against the backdrop of war conditions. The atmosphere reflects a mix of desperation and determination among the residents as they demand a better future amidst ongoing turmoil.