Family of Slain Gazan Protester Blames Hamas for His Death

A wave of anger and defiance swept through the streets of Gaza on Saturday as mourners gathered for the funeral of 22-year-old Oday Nasser Al Rabay. The young protester was found lifeless outside his family home after allegedly being kidnapped, tortured, and executed—his relatives say—by members of Hamas.

His funeral turned into a rallying cry against Gaza’s rulers. Hundreds of mourners marched through the streets, their chants of “Hamas out!” echoing the very demonstrations Al Rabay had participated in. His murder marks the first known retaliatory killing since protests erupted last week across multiple locations in Gaza.

Hamas, the militant group that has controlled Gaza since 2007, has faced growing discontent. Protesters have taken to the streets, demanding change. But speaking out comes at a cost. A Gazan activist now exiled in Turkey, who has been sharing footage of the demonstrations online, claims he has received direct threats from senior Hamas officials.

Despite eyewitness accounts and video evidence, Hamas insists that the protests were directed at Israel, not at their own governance. Al Jazeera, a Qatari-owned media outlet, echoed this narrative. However, other Arabic media sources have reported that the protests were indeed aimed at Hamas.

As tensions escalate, Hamas leaders appear to be weighing their options. According to Israel’s public broadcaster Kan, some within the organization have expressed a willingness to release a few hostages in exchange for a truce during Eid al-Fitr, which begins on Sunday evening. This move could be an attempt to ease pressure and regain public favor amid rising unrest.

Meanwhile, Israeli military operations in Gaza have further constrained Hamas’ ability to suppress protests, limiting their reach and enforcement mechanisms.

Al Rabay’s killing has become a symbol of the risks faced by those who dare to challenge Hamas’ rule. As dissent grows and international attention turns to Gaza, one question remains: Will the people’s anger lead to meaningful change, or will Hamas tighten its grip even further?

Video: Hamas tortures, murders 22-year-old Gazan protest leader