What's happened
On March 25, 2025, large-scale protests erupted in northern Gaza, with hundreds of Palestinians demanding an end to Hamas's rule and the ongoing war with Israel. Demonstrators chanted anti-Hamas slogans and called for peace, marking the largest protests since the October 7 attacks. The protests reflect growing frustration with Hamas amid worsening humanitarian conditions.
What's behind the headline?
Key Insights:
- Public Sentiment: The protests indicate a significant shift in public sentiment against Hamas, with many Gazans blaming the group for the ongoing violence and humanitarian crisis.
- Hamas's Control: Historically, Hamas has suppressed dissent, making these protests notable for their scale and intensity. The chants of 'Hamas out' reflect a growing desire for change among the populace.
- Humanitarian Crisis: The dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, exacerbated by the war and blockade, has fueled anger towards Hamas, which many believe is hoarding aid.
- Future Implications: If protests continue to grow, they could challenge Hamas's grip on power, potentially leading to a shift in governance in Gaza. However, the group's violent response to dissent raises concerns about the safety of protesters.
- International Attention: The protests may draw international scrutiny towards the situation in Gaza, potentially influencing diplomatic efforts regarding the conflict.
What the papers say
According to The Guardian, the protests in Beit Lahia were described as the largest against Hamas since the October attacks, with demonstrators chanting 'Hamas out' and calling for peace. The New York Times highlighted that many Gazans hold Hamas accountable for the war's devastation, stating, 'We want to continue until the bloodshed stops and Hamas leaves the Palestinian scene.' The NY Post reported that protesters expressed frustration over Hamas's control and the dire humanitarian conditions, with one resident stating, 'Hamas pillages what little aid comes through the border.' The Times of Israel noted that protests are rare in Gaza, especially against Hamas, which has maintained strict control since 2007. These contrasting perspectives illustrate the growing unrest and the potential for significant political change in the region.
How we got here
The protests come after a two-month ceasefire ended, leading to renewed Israeli bombardment of Gaza. Since Hamas's attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, the region has faced severe humanitarian crises, with over 50,000 Palestinians reported killed. Public dissent against Hamas has been rare due to its strict control over Gaza.
Go deeper
- What sparked the protests in Gaza?
- How has Hamas responded to the demonstrations?
- What are the implications for Gaza's future?
Common question
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What is the latest on the Gaza conflict and humanitarian crisis?
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has escalated dramatically, leading to a severe humanitarian crisis. With new ceasefire talks underway and widespread protests against Hamas, many are seeking clarity on the situation. Here are some of the most pressing questions surrounding the current events in Gaza and their implications.
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What Are the Latest Developments in the Gaza-Israel Conflict?
The ongoing conflict between Gaza and Israel has escalated significantly, with recent threats from Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and large-scale protests against Hamas. As tensions rise, many are left wondering about the humanitarian situation in Gaza and the implications of violence in neighboring Syria. Here are some of the most pressing questions surrounding this complex situation.
More on these topics
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Hamas is a Palestinian Sunni-Islamic fundamentalist militant organization. It has a social service wing, Dawah, and a military wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades.
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Gaza may refer to:
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Israel, formally known as the State of Israel, is a country in Western Asia, located on the southeastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea and the northern shore of the Red Sea.
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The Gaza Strip, or simply Gaza, is a self-governing Palestinian territory on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, that borders Egypt on the southwest for 11 kilometers and Israel on the east and north along a 51 km border.
