Fact Check: Thousands in Gaza protested against Hamas amid Israeli strikes
What We Know
Since March 25, 2025, protests have erupted across the Gaza Strip against Hamas, the governing authority since 2007. These demonstrations have been fueled by a combination of war exhaustion and dissatisfaction with Hamas's leadership during the ongoing conflict with Israel. Reports indicate that demonstrators are calling for an end to both the war and Hamas's rule, with protests spreading to various towns, including Beit Lahia, where hundreds have participated (source-1, source-3).
The protests have reportedly been the largest against Hamas since the onset of the current conflict, which escalated after the October 7, 2023, attacks by Hamas on Israel. Demonstrators have expressed their frustrations over the dire humanitarian conditions exacerbated by the ongoing Israeli strikes and the blockade imposed on Gaza. Many protesters have openly criticized Hamas, stating that its governance has led to increased suffering and instability (source-2, source-4).
Analysis
The evidence supporting the claim that thousands in Gaza protested against Hamas amid Israeli strikes is robust. Multiple reliable sources confirm that protests have taken place in various locations within Gaza, with reports indicating that hundreds to potentially thousands of individuals have participated. The protests are characterized by calls for an end to Hamas's rule and an end to the ongoing conflict, reflecting a significant shift in public sentiment against the governing authority (source-1, source-3).
The protests have been described as a bold challenge to Hamas's authority, especially considering the group's history of suppressing dissent. Analysts suggest that the reduced ability of Hamas to respond forcefully to these protests is likely due to the ongoing military pressure from Israeli airstrikes and the precarious situation within Gaza (source-3). However, there are indications that Hamas has attempted to control the narrative surrounding the protests, with some supporters alleging that the demonstrations serve foreign agendas without providing substantial evidence (source-3).
The credibility of the sources reporting on these protests is generally high, with major news outlets and academic analyses providing consistent accounts of the events. The protests are not isolated incidents but part of a broader context of dissatisfaction with Hamas, as evidenced by declining approval ratings for the group (source-1, source-2).
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that thousands in Gaza protested against Hamas amid Israeli strikes is substantiated by multiple credible sources. The protests reflect a significant public outcry against Hamas's governance and the ongoing conflict, marking a notable moment in the political landscape of Gaza. The evidence indicates that these demonstrations are widespread and represent a collective frustration among Gazans regarding their living conditions and the ongoing war.
