Hamas claims Gaza protests target Israel, not its rule

English , Middle East - مشرق وسطٰی , Snippets , / Thursday, March 27th, 2025

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GAZA, March 27 – Hamas has downplayed growing protests in Gaza, insisting that demonstrations are aimed at Israel rather than its own rule. Thousands of Gazans have taken to the streets this week, chanting against Hamas and calling for an end to its nearly two-decade grip on the territory.
Hamas official Basem Naim told Al-Araby that “demonstrations are expected from people facing war and destruction” but accused “enemy and political groups” of misrepresenting the protests. Despite video evidence and direct testimonies, Hamas claims the rallies are not against its governance.
On Wednesday, thousands rallied in Gaza City and Beit Lahiya, demanding Hamas’s removal. Protesters carried banners reading “Hamas does not represent us” and urged the group to release hostages to end the war.
The protests follow Hamas’s October 7 attack on Israel, which led to war. Israel launched a military campaign to dismantle Hamas and free hostages. As the war continues, pressure mounts on Hamas, with some seeing its lack of crackdown on protests as a sign of waning control.
Public demonstrations against Hamas are rare, but growing frustration over harsh living conditions and continued conflict has led to unprecedented dissent.