Recent polls have indicated a rise in support for Hamas in the Gaza enclave, but one social activist paints a different picture. Despite survey results showing widespread backing for Hamas’ violent actions against Israel and its governance of Gaza, Rami Aman, a native of Gaza and declared ‘prisoner of conscience’ by Amnesty International, believes that Hamas is actually losing support on the ground.
Aman asserts that media manipulation contributes to the illusion of Hamas’ strength, claiming that their support has dwindled significantly since the beginning of the conflict. With upwards of 38,000 casualties, mainly civilians, and widespread destruction of infrastructure in the region, many Gazans hold both Israel and Hamas accountable for their suffering.
Aman recounts his resistance against Hamas dating back to 2009 and highlights the various protests and movements he has led against the group. Despite facing repressions and arrests, Aman remains determined to fight for a better future for Gaza, believing that change is still attainable in the war-torn region.
While internal divisions and regional initiatives have hindered efforts to bring about peace and reconciliation between factions in Gaza, Aman remains hopeful that one day, Gaza will see a brighter future free from the grip of Hamas.