Unprecedented Protest: Palestinians in Gaza Demand End to War and Call for Hamas Exit

In northern Gaza, hundreds of Palestinians have staged a rare protest demanding an end to the ongoing war and calling for Hamas to leave. The protests highlight public opposition against the militant group's actions and reflect growing tensions within Palestinian factions over Gaza's future governance.

In an unprecedented move, hundreds of Palestinians took to the streets in northern Gaza, demanding an end to the ongoing war while chanting 'Hamas out.' The protest marked a rare public demonstration against the militant group, which initiated the latest series of hostilities with its raid on Israel on October 7, 2023.

The rally, captured in videos circulating on social media, showed demonstrators marching through Beit Lahiya, expressing frustration and exhaustion with the prolonged conflict. Despite the risk of retribution, many protestors voiced slogans against Hamas, indicating a significant, albeit not universal, sentiment of opposition among Gaza's residents.

As Palestinian factions debate the future governance of Gaza, tensions have surfaced. Prime Minister of the West Bank's Fatah movement has urged Hamas to heed the public's call for change, while Hamas maintains it should have a role in deciding the future government structure.

(With inputs from agencies.)