Call to Action: Palestinians Organize Uncommon 'Friday of Rage' Protest Against Hamas Governance

Synopsis

On March 28, the Assembly of Southern Gaza Clans called for a 'Friday of Rage' protest against Hamas, signaling a growing dissent among Palestinians. Despite threats, protests erupted across Gaza, as demonstrators demanded an end to Hamas' rule and for their voices to be heard.

Key Takeaways

Assembly of Southern Gaza Clans initiates protest.
Protests spread across multiple cities in Gaza.
Demonstrators face threats from Hamas militants.
Social media highlights the unrest and protests.
Growing frustration among the populace is evident.

Gaza, March 28 (NationPress) The Assembly of Southern Gaza Clans has made a compelling call for a widespread uprising, proclaiming a 'Friday of Rage' against Hamas and cautioning the group that any efforts to quash this movement will encounter staunch opposition.

Numerous Palestinians have been flooding the streets throughout Gaza, boldly voicing their dissent against Hamas, despite threats from the group's military wing. These uncommon demonstrations have gained traction, with protesters endangering their safety to express their frustration towards the Islamist faction.

The protests, which have erupted in several cities, including Jabalia, Beit Lahiya, Nuseirat, Khan Younis, Gaza City, and Deir al-Balah Camp, were further energized by the Assembly of Southern Gaza Clans.

Footage circulating on social media depicts demonstrators marching through the ruins of war-ravaged areas, shouting slogans such as 'Hamas out', 'Al Jazeera out', 'Hamas are terrorists', and 'People want to overthrow Hamas'.

Reports indicate that masked individuals wielding batons, believed to be Hamas operatives, have been observed at various protest sites, allegedly surveilling demonstrators and possibly identifying individuals for future retribution.

Human rights advocate Ihab Hassan shared his insights on X, noting that Hamas militias were present at rallies, vigilantly monitoring the crowds.

'During the anti-Hamas protest in Beit Lahia, northern Gaza, masked Hamas militias -- armed with clubs -- were seen closely observing the crowd, potentially compiling names of protesters for future targeting,' he posted.

Several demonstrators have reportedly received death threats, cautioning them against participating in further protests, according to some media reports.

American-Palestinian blogger Ahmed Fouad Alkhatib also underscored the escalating unrest, sharing videos of mass protests occurring throughout Gaza for the third consecutive day.

He characterized the movement as a call for 'an end to Hamas' rule, an end to war, dignity, freedom, and a life free from Iranian-backed militants holding 2.3 million Palestinians hostage to their so-called resistance.'

Hamas has a history of violently suppressing protests, but this time, its armed personnel have remained relatively subdued.

The last significant protest against Hamas took place in January 2024 when residents of Deir al-Balah and Khan Younis demanded an end to the war, Hamas' governance, and the release of Israeli hostages. Anti-Hamas demonstrations have traditionally been infrequent, yet the ongoing conflict seems to be altering the landscape.

The conflict ignited on October 7, 2023, when Hamas executed a cross-border attack into southern Israel, resulting in the deaths of approximately 1200 civilians and the capture of 251 hostages.

In retaliation, Israel initiated an unrelenting military campaign aimed at dismantling Hamas. Israeli forces have pledged to persist with their operations until Hamas releases the remaining 59 hostages, of whom 24 are believed to be alive.

Experts suggest that the surging protests in Gaza reflect rising discontent among the local populace, who have endured months of warfare and devastation.