Gaza’s Hidden Repressions: What Really Happens?

A surge in Palestinian demands for Hamas to step down is met with brutal repression, raising global concern.

Story Overview

• Increasing Palestinian calls for Hamas to relinquish power amidst ongoing conflict.
• Allegations of harsh repression and executions by Hamas surface.
• Grassroots protests grow despite the risks and humanitarian crisis.
• International efforts for a ceasefire remain unsuccessful.

Escalating Internal Dissent Against Hamas

As the conflict between Israel and Hamas continues to ravage Gaza, a growing number of Palestinians are vocally demanding that Hamas step down from power. According to reports by the Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor and the Palestinian Center for Human Rights (PCHR), critics of Hamas have faced detention, intimidation, and, in some documented cases, execution on accusations of collaboration with Israel.

The war, initiated on October 7, 2023, has left Gaza devastated, with mounting civilian casualties and a crumbling infrastructure. Israeli military operations have intensified over the past two years, aiming to dismantle Hamas’s military capabilities. Meanwhile, Palestinian grassroots groups such as Gaza Youth Breaks Out (GYBO) and activists cited in reporting by Al Jazeera and The New York Times have increasingly criticized Hamas’s governance and war strategy, especially as civilian suffering continues to escalate.

Humanitarian Crisis and Repression

The humanitarian situation in Gaza has reached dire levels, with severe shortages of food, water, and medical supplies. Reports by Amnesty International and Reuters indicate that Hamas has carried out executions of individuals accused of collaboration, a move rights groups say is intended to deter opposition. The harsh repression by Hamas has further fueled public anger and fear, prompting more Palestinians to join protests despite the risks.

International attempts to mediate a ceasefire, led by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, have so far been unsuccessful, according to reporting by the Associated Press and the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA). The ongoing humanitarian crisis poses a significant challenge for international aid organizations trying to deliver much-needed relief.

Potential Shifts in Palestinian Leadership

As grassroots protests continue to gain momentum, there is a growing possibility of a shift in Palestinian leadership. Analysts such as Tareq Baconi (International Crisis Group) and Mkhaimar Abusada (Al-Azhar University, Gaza) note that mounting internal dissent could create openings for alternative leadership, though such transitions face major political obstacles. However, the current power dynamics and the potential for internal conflict or civil unrest pose significant challenges to achieving a stable political transition.

The truth will prevail! Hamas is a barbaric evil Islamic terrorist organization that has done more harm to its people than anyone else. SHAME ON HAMAShttps://t.co/M2ytyiCmWx

— EMET (@EMET1268015) August 18, 2025

According to analysts cited by Carnegie Middle East Center and the International Crisis Group, the erosion of public trust in Hamas and the increase in grassroots activism may shape future political dynamics in Gaza, though the scale of potential change remains uncertain. Nonetheless, the path forward remains uncertain, with potential implications for future peace negotiations and regional stability.

Sources:

Israel-Hamas War: Ceasefire and Hostage Exchange – January-March 2025
Timeline of the Gaza War
Israel’s War on Gaza: A Timeline of Major Events
Timeline: Israel’s Actions in Gaza After the End of Ceasefire with Hamas