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🇮🇱 Israel /Culture & Society

Hamas deploys armed guards, confiscates phones to suppress Gaza protest plans - report

From Jerusalem Post · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • Hamas reportedly used threats, intimidation, and restricted movement to prevent planned anti-Hamas protests in Gaza.
  • Activists reported facing severe threats, accusations of treason, and confiscation of phones.
  • Hamas claimed the measures were to protect public order, while critics say it's to suppress dissent and distract from other issues.

Planned anti-Hamas demonstrations across the Gaza Strip on Friday were reportedly subdued due to threats and intimidation tactics employed by the group. Hebrew media reports, citing unidentified sources in Gaza, indicate that Hamas deployed armed operatives and restricted civilian movement, particularly in displacement camps. Phones were allegedly confiscated from individuals linked to protest calls.

They accused us of treason.

— Protest organizerDescribing the threats faced from Hamas.

Organizers described facing "severe threats" and accusations of "treason" from Hamas. One activist told Kan News that "they threaten anyone who opposes Hamas." Another protester told Ynet that the atmosphere was one of "clear pressure," with any attempt to organize met by an immediate security force response. These actions aimed to prevent what organizers described as protests focused on harsh living conditions and delays in a hostage deal.

They threaten anyone who opposes Hamas. All of us are in danger, but we still believe we deserve to live without a terrorist organization.

— Protest organizerExpressing the danger and desire for a life free from Hamas rule.

Conversely, Hamas supporters reportedly framed these measures as necessary "to protect public order and prevent chaos in times of war." The report also notes Hamas's recent arrests of individuals accused of "collaborating with Israel," with some expected to face execution. A Gaza social activist suggested these arrests were timed to intimidate potential protesters and instill fear.

The atmosphere on the ground was one of clear pressure, and any attempt to organize the public was met with an immediate response from security forces.

— Reported protester in GazaDescribing the environment of repression.

The IDF had prepared for potential riots along the Gaza Strip's border, but the anticipated large-scale protests did not materialize as predicted.

to protect public order and prevent chaos in times of war

— Hamas supportersClaimed justification for Hamas's actions.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Jerusalem Post. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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