Uday Nasser Al Rabay’s Killing Sparks Outrage Amid Growing Protests in Gaza
Hamas has allegedly tortured a protester to death and left his body on his family’s doorstep in Gaza, intensifying tensions as rare public demonstrations against the group continue.
Brutal Killing of Uday Nasser Al Rabay
Uday Nasser Al Rabay was reportedly kidnapped shortly after participating in an anti-Hamas protest. His bloodied body was later returned to his family, sending a chilling message to others considering dissent.
Mazen Shat, a senior Fatah-affiliated police officer, condemned the act, stating:
“Uday was martyred by the criminals of Hamas. His crime? Speaking the truth and refusing to bow to oppression.”
Graphic images show severe wounds and bruising, indicating that Al Rabay was tortured for hours before his death.
Growing Unrest in Gaza
Public frustration with Hamas has escalated as the war with Israel drags on, with over 50,000 Palestinians killed in the conflict. While protests in Gaza are rare due to fear of violent crackdowns, recent demonstrations have gained momentum.
Sam Habeeb, a Gazan living in London and former parliamentary candidate, highlighted the significance of the protests:
“This is the largest protest movement Gaza has seen since Hamas seized control in 2007. The people want their voices heard, but they are being silenced through violence.”
Hamas’ Response and Continued Clashes
Hamas, which took power in Gaza in 2007 after a brief war with Fatah, initially saw increased support following its October 7, 2023, attack on Israel. However, public opinion has since shifted, with a September poll from the Palestinian Centre for Policy and Survey Research indicating growing dissatisfaction.
The recent protests erupted after the collapse of a two-month ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, which had facilitated hostage exchanges. Meanwhile, Israeli airstrikes continue to target Hamas positions, with civilians caught in the crossfire.
Crackdowns and Accusations of ‘Collaboration’
Gazan-born activist Hamza Howidy, who now lives in exile, has been imprisoned and tortured by Hamas for protesting in both 2019 and 2023. He warns that the group will brand victims as “collaborators” to justify executions.
“They humiliate and break you. In prison, they make you pretend to ride a drawn bicycle on the wall—if you refuse, they beat you.”
Reports suggest at least six others have been executed under accusations of collaboration.
Hamas’ Stance on Disarmament and Hostage Negotiations
Despite increasing unrest, Hamas remains defiant. On Saturday, senior Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya claimed the group had agreed to a proposal involving the release of five Israeli hostages per week but rejected demands to disarm.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed on Sunday to intensify pressure on Hamas, reiterating demands for the group’s disarmament and leadership exile.
