In a March 22, 2025 column for Saudi news site Elaph, Emirati political analyst Salem Al-Ketbi condemned Hamas for pushing Gaza into destruction while hiding behind religious rhetoric.

He argued that Hamas provoked Israel into war despite knowing Gazan civilians would suffer most. He accused the group of using human shields, embedding weapons in hospitals and schools, and seizing humanitarian aid — all while its leaders live comfortably abroad.

Al-Ketbi stressed that the October 7 attack, in which Israeli civilians were murdered and taken hostage, blatantly violated international law and Islamic principles. He denounced Hamas' use of terms like “jihad” and “martyrdom” to mask what he called criminal behavior, pointing out that Islamic law forbids targeting civilians, mutilating bodies, and mistreating hostages.

The analyst urged that Hamas be removed from power and replaced with leadership committed to democracy and human rights. Only then, he argued, can Gaza have a future centered on civilian welfare rather than endless violence.