The Israeli Defense Forces issued evacuation orders for various areas within Gaza City on Wednesday as they intensify efforts against Hamas following a ceasefire disruption last week. The ongoing conflict has caused widespread devastation, leading to the displacement of nearly 90% of Gaza’s residents.
In northern Gaza, thousands of Palestinians participated in anti-war protests for the second consecutive day, expressing their frustration not just towards Hamas, but also against the inexorable conflict in Gaza and the dire conditions under which they live. These demonstrations demonstrate rare opposition to Hamas, focusing more broadly on the war and their unendurable situation.
Since early in the month, Israel has enforced a blockade, halting the flow of food, fuel, medicine, and various supplies to the war-ravaged area, home to roughly 2 million people; actions criticized by human rights organizations as war crimes. The Israeli stance is that military pressure will persist until Hamas releases 59 remaining hostages, 24 of whom are thought to be alive, and agrees to disarm and expel its leaders. Conversely, Hamas demands a permanent ceasefire and Israeli withdrawal before considering freeing hostages.
On Wednesday, Israeli airstrikes in central Gaza claimed at least nine lives, medics reported. Among them, a charity kitchen at the Nuseirat refugee camp was targeted where at least five people, including a woman and her daughter, perished. Another airstrike on a tent resulted in the deaths of a family of three in Zwaeida.
Protests in Beit Lahiya saw around 3,000 people gathering while in the Shijaiyah neighborhood, calls for Hamas to relinquish control resounded. The sentiments expressed included frustration over the loss of lives and homes. Defense Minister Israel Katz pushed for Palestinians to rally against Hamas, emphasizing that their removal and the release of all hostages are crucial to ending the conflict.
A protester who participated on Tuesday expressed regret over media coverage focusing on anti-Hamas sentiments. This individual, wishing to remain anonymous, described their involvement as driven by general despair with various factions, including Israel and the silence of the global community. During the protest, no direct intervention by Hamas occurred, although minor altercations between supporters and detractors were reported.
Hamas official Bassem Naim acknowledged the legitimacy of protests but asserted that grievances should target Israel as the aggressor. Hamas historically suppresses dissent, but current passive oversight may be attributed to maintaining a low profile amid resumed hostilities.
The United Nations Population Fund highlighted the detrimental impact of the blockade on healthcare, particularly noting significant shortages in maternal health supplies. Supplies meant for pregnant women and newborn care remain outside Gaza due to the blockade, worsening conditions for the 520 infants in need of medical attention.
In addition to the blockade, a Gaza hospital director, detained since a raid last year, had his detention extended without charges. Accusations against the director include being a threat to Israeli security, though these are steadfastly denied.
In a related cultural controversy, a co-director of an Oscar-winning film criticized the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences for not condemning an attack on his Palestinian co-director by Israeli forces. The incident highlights tensions and underscored differing responses from the European and American film bodies.
Palestinian demonstrations in Gaza revealing dissatisfaction with Hamas are rare due to the militant group’s suppression of dissent. Videos circulating online show these protests advocating an end to the war and denouncing the devastation in Gaza, with some protestors confronting Hamas sympathizers attempting to break up gatherings.
In response to recent rocket attacks, the Israeli military has directed evacuations in specific Gaza neighborhoods, continuing its campaign against Hamas. This move follows last week’s breach of ceasefire and resultant air strikes. As the conflict lingers, demands from each side remain unresolved, reflecting the deeply entrenched hostilities initiated by an attack on Israel in October 2023, resulting in significant casualties and prolonged turmoil.