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Fatah Supports... Gaza Protesters Demand an End to War and Hamas Leadership’s Resignation
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Fatah’s backing of protesters’ demands signals a shift in the political stance, amid calls for a legitimate authority to oversee Gaza’s reconstruction independently of Hamas rule
Amid escalating public protests in Gaza, Fatah has expressed its support for the demands raised by demonstrators over the past two days, stressing that the protesters are independent citizens advocating for their rights, not affiliates of the movement.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Fatah affirmed its endorsement of these demonstrations, highlighting their legitimate demands, primarily the cessation of the war in the Strip and the establishment of a legitimate body to manage reconstruction and relief efforts.
Conversely, Hamas claimed that such protests could serve the interests of the Israeli occupation by attempting to "divide the Palestinian ranks."
In its first official response, Hamas called for unity against Israel, arguing that "suffering under the blockade is preferable to aligning with the enemy."
Thousands of demonstrators have taken to the streets of Gaza in the past two days, chanting slogans demanding an end to destruction and the resignation of the current leadership. Protesters voiced anger over Hamas’s policies since the outbreak of war on October 7, 2023, chanting phrases like "We want to live" and "Enough destruction."
The Israeli war on Gaza has persisted for nearly 18 months, resulting in approximately 50,000 deaths and hundreds of thousands of injuries. Widespread destruction, coupled with severe shortages of food and medical aid, has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in the Strip.
