Open criticism of Hamas is growing in Gaza, both on the streets and online.
Some have publicly condemned Hamas for hiding hostages in apartments near a busy marketplace and for launching rockets from civilian areas. Some are even urging their leaders to agree to a ceasefire with Israel.
There are still those in Gaza fiercely loyal to Hamas, and after years of repressive control, it’s difficult to gauge how much the group is losing support or how much existing opponents feel more able to speak out.
However, a senior Hamas official privately acknowledged to the BBC months ago that they were losing support as a result of the war.
Even some on the group’s own payroll are wavering. One senior Hamas government employee told the BBC that the Hamas attacks were “a crazy, uncalculated leap.” He asked that his identity be concealed.
“I know from my work with the Hamas government that it prepared well for the attack militarily, but it neglected the home front,” he said. “They did not build any safe shelters for people, they did not reserve enough food, fuel, and medical supplies. If my family and I survive this war, I will leave Gaza at the first chance I get.”