BBC Reports Increase in Criticism of Hamas in Gaza as War Continues

By Yoni Weiss

Residents of the Gaza Strip are increasingly vocal in their criticism of Hamas amidst the ongoing conflict. A BBC report highlighted a man injured during Operation Arnon’s hostage rescue, lamenting, “I’m one of you, but you are a cowardly people. We could have avoided this attack!”

Criticism has intensified, particularly regarding Hamas’s alleged concealment of hostages among civilian populations, including crowded areas. On the streets, curses and insults directed at Hamas leaders are reportedly more frequent, with some residents expressing dissent symbolically by naming their donkeys after Yahya Sinwar, a prominent Hamas figure.

“People are openly blaming Hamas for our suffering,” shared one resident, adding, “Some even pray for an end to their lives rather than endure further hardship.”

Another resident questioned the purpose of recent attacks, suggesting they inadvertently benefited Israel. An anonymous Hamas worker admitted to BBC, “Despite our military preparations, Hamas neglected civilian needs, failing to build adequate shelters or stockpile essential supplies like food, fuel, and medicine. If my family survives, I plan to leave Gaza at the earliest opportunity.”

Despite these voices of discontent, public support for Hamas remains strong in Gaza, with many residents attributing their plight primarily to Israeli actions. Nevertheless, dissent against Hamas, both publicly and privately voiced, appears to be growing.