As negotiations continue over a hostage deal, anger is mounting inside Gaza—not only toward Israel, but increasingly at Hamas. Many residents are now publicly blaming the group for dragging out the war and ignoring the mediators’ efforts.
“End the war, you scoundrel!” one Gazan man shouted. “They sit abroad, eating and drinking as they please while we die here. Why? You’re negotiating over a few prisoners—how many people have died in Gaza because of that? Where are your children? Yours are safe, while ours are dying.”
Another resident continued: “They eat rice, chicken, and meat, enjoy fruits and stay in hotels—while we’re dying here. On what basis are you negotiating? Come to Gaza and see what’s happening. Then you’ll understand.”
Mounir al-Jaida, a Gazan activist, directed his plea to the Hamas delegation abroad: “Negotiate the opening of the Rafah crossing so we can leave. Give them three or four hostages if you have to—just let us get out of Gaza and rebuild our lives.”