This week, hundreds of Palestinians in north and central Gaza protested in opposition to Hamas, chanting, “Out, out, out, Hamas get out!” and accusing Al Jazeera of ignoring them in favor of pro-Hamas coverage. While the demonstration was a rare instance since October 7th, 2023, what it does show is that people in Gaza are increasingly regretful for their support of Hamas and the destruction the ruling terrorist group has brought to their lives, homes, and futures.
As more time passes and hostages continue to be imprisoned by a terrorist organization, the reality of Hamas’s calculations is becoming ever clearer. The point of October 7th was always to provoke a response from Israel that would inflame the international community, all while using the people of Gaza as a means to an end. It’s more important now than ever for Americans and the rest of the international community to see this fact with open eyes and to understand that any peace agreement cannot be sustained while the people of Gaza live under a terrorist regime that has no intention toward their well-being and prosperity, much less that of a lasting peace with Israel.
Although Hamas has already vowed to punish protesters, I hope that we will see more actions like this, which will go a long way in dissolving the film of victimhood that Hamas claims. A better future is only possible when Gazans have leaders who care for their well being instead of using them as human shields.