The continuous confrontation between Israel and Hamas has made life challenging for many Palestinians. They may not agree with what Hamas is doing, but they acknowledge that the organisation is a powerful force for resistance in Palestine.
Since 2007, the Gaza Strip has been under the political and military rule of Hamas, an Islamist organisation. The goal of the organisation is to overthrow the state of Israel and establish Jerusalem as the capital of Palestine, according to its founding charter. Due to its attitude and a history of attacking Israel, it is commonly regarded as a terrorist organisation on a global scale.
However, Hamas symbolises a kind of resistance for many Palestinians, particularly those in Gaza who endure poor living conditions, against what they perceive to be Israeli occupation. The group’s acts are frequently interpreted as a reaction to the Palestinian people’s suffering and protracted struggle.
Furthermore, there is also a lot of disapproval and apprehension among Palestinians about Hamas. Human rights organizations have criticized the group for restricting civil liberties. Many Palestinians are constantly terrified of the lethal reprisals that frequently follow Hamas attacks against Israel. Additionally, several Palestinians have voiced dissatisfaction with the organization’s management of the Gaza Strip, citing problems like a lack of jobs, electricity, and water.
For Palestinians, who may not agree with Hamas’s tactics but nonetheless consider the organization a crucial force of resistance, this poses a difficult conundrum. They are torn between wanting peace and wanting to speak out against what they see as an oppressive occupation.
It is imperative that all sides prioritize peace and the safety of people as the conflict develops. The situation is being closely watched by the international community, which is calling for an immediate ceasefire.