Hamas Denounces PA’s Suppression of Pro-Gaza Demonstrations in the West Bank
Hamas has criticized the Palestinian Authority for its actions in quelling demonstrations in the occupied West Bank, as these protests called for an end to what is described as Israel's genocidal conflict in the Gaza Strip.
On Tuesday, the resistance group issued a statement accusing the Palestinian Authority, the governing body of the occupied West Bank, of actively attempting to undermine any grassroots movements rallying in support of Gaza.
The announcement followed a day of widespread business closures across the West Bank, where Palestinians observed a general strike and staged demonstrations in support of their compatriots in response to the intense Israeli military actions in Gaza.
Monday’s demonstrations encountered resistance not only from Israeli forces but also from the Palestinian Authority, which intensified its measures by detaining several participants involved in the protests.
Hamas has criticized the Palestinian Authority’s actions, alleging that they align with Israeli interests and likened the moves to a “stab in the back” for Palestinians.
Commercial establishments, educational institutions, and the majority of government offices throughout the West Bank were shut down amid a widespread strike. This action, initiated by a coalition of Palestinian factions, was held in protest against what they termed the Israeli “genocide and the ongoing massacre of our people.”
Imad Salman, proprietor of a souvenir store in the Old City of al-Quds, expressed that the closure is in solidarity with “our family in Gaza, our children in Gaza.”
A Palestinian identified as Ahmed stated, “This strike stands in solidarity with Gaza and the current situation there. The war must cease, the killings and destruction must end, and peace, and only peace, should prevail.”
On Monday, parallel demonstrations in support of Palestine were held in Tunisia, Jordan, Syria, and Lebanon.
On October 7, 2023, Israel commenced its military offensive in Gaza. Despite significant casualties, including the deaths of 50,752 Palestinians—primarily women and children—and over 115,475 injuries, the operation did not meet its stated goals.
The entity that took control has accepted the longstanding negotiation terms set forth by Hamas under the Gaza ceasefire, which commenced on January 19.
On March 18, reports emerged that Israel unilaterally disrupted the ceasefire, resuming its intensive aerial bombardment of Gaza.
