Gazans against Hamas are ignored by the West and betrayed by their leaders

Just a few days ago, back when it appeared that the demonstrations in Gaza might be our first proper signs of a rebellion against Hamas rule, I spoke to two men who had been marching.

They said they wanted what we all want; an end to the war. Peace. The chance to get on with their lives. Before October 7, one had been a student, the other a legal adviser. Now they were both displaced people sick of being moved from area to area to avoid the bombs, their lives on hold.

Speaking via Zoom on a call facilitated by the Centre for Peace Communications for members of the Israel-based Jerusalem Press Club, and using the pseudonyms “Kareem” and “Saeed”, these men had plenty to say about Hamas. About how Hamas had stolen all the aid meant for the people of Gaza. “I used to see the trucks coming in and so I have seen how much food, clothes and even furniture came into Gaza but I received nothing from day one,” said one. “It was all for sale even though it was labelled ‘not for sale’.”

They talked of their fury that the Qatar-funded television channel Al Jazeera was parroting Hamas talking points and giving its huge worldwide audience the impression that their demonstrations were either aimed at Israel or being orchestrated by it.