The marches took place in Gaza City and the city of Khan Yunis, among other places, chanting “Shame!” Hamas flags were burned at one location. The police later intervened and dispersed the protesters.
The police agents destroyed the cell phones of the people who were recording the protests in Khan Yunis, and the witnesses said that there were several detainees. Dozens of young people who supported and opposed Hamas staged a brief confrontation in which they threw stones at each other.
The demonstrations were organized by an online movement called “alvirus alsakher” (“the mocking virus”). At the moment it is unknown who is behind the movement.
Hamas rules Gaza with an iron fist and bans most demonstrations, quickly quashing public displays of dissent.
The Islamic extremist group seized control of Gaza in 2007 from the forces of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, prompting Israel and Egypt to impose a heavy blockade on the territory. The Israeli government says the move is necessary to prevent Hamas — which does not recognize Israel’s right to exist — from increasing its military capabilities.
The blockade has devastated Gaza’s economy, skyrocketing unemployment rates and fueling frequent blackouts. During the current heat wave, the population has received four to six hours of power a day due to the enormous demand.
“Where is the light and where is the gas?” the crowds chanted on Khan Yunis. “What a shame! What a shame!”
The protesters also criticized Hamas for deducting a fee of nearly $15 from the $100 monthly stipends that the wealthy oil country of Qatar gives to Gaza’s poorest families.
Hamas authorities did not immediately comment.
FOUNTAIN: Associated Press
