Archive · 17 Nov 2025
Hamas's Popularity Rises in Gaza, Challenging Trump's Disarmament Plan
After a big fight, some people in Gaza liked how a group called Hamas helped keep things safe and stop bad guys from stealing.
Even though many people don't like Hamas because they fight a lot, they are happy that their streets are safer now.
This has made more people in Gaza feel better about Hamas.
A plan by President Trump wants Hamas to give up its weapons, but many people are not sure they want that because they want to feel safe, and Hamas is currently providing that safety for many.
Hamas's popularity has increased among Palestinians in Gaza since the recent cease-fire.
The group's reassertion as police forces has led to a significant reduction in crime and looting.
Many Gazans welcome the restored order and security provided by Hamas, despite having a dim view of the group.
Recent polls indicate a rise in positive views of Hamas's performance and increased support for the party in theoretical elections.
The growing support for Hamas complicates the Trump plan's second phase, which requires the group to disarm and relinquish a role in Gaza's future government.
- Who
- Hamas, Palestinians in Gaza, President Trump, U.S. Central Command
- What
- Rising popularity of Hamas in Gaza complicates a U.S. plan to disarm the militant group and bring peace.
- When
- Since the recent cease-fire; polling data from last month.
- Where
- Gaza Strip
- Why
- Hamas is reasserting control as police, reducing crime and providing security, which is a welcome development for many Gazans amidst ongoing conflict and lack of alternatives.
Supporters of Hamas's Role in Security
Critics of Hamas's Rule
Security and Stability
Supporters of Hamas's Role in Security
Hamas's re-emergence as police forces has significantly reduced crime, looting, and lawlessness, providing a sense of security that many Gazans welcome, even those who oppose the group.
Critics of Hamas's Rule
Hamas's methods of maintaining security involve brutality and violence, with critics like anti-Hamas activist Mohammad Burno stating that true security cannot be achieved through such means.
Hamas's Popularity and Performance
Supporters of Hamas's Role in Security
A recent poll showed a rise in positive views of Hamas's performance during the war, with 51% of Gazans surveyed expressing approval, an increase from previous months. Support for Hamas in theoretical elections has also grown.
Critics of Hamas's Rule
Despite poll numbers, many Gazans remain frustrated with Hamas, were appalled by its violent crackdown, and previously protested against the group due to homelessness and hunger. Some criticize Hamas for prolonging the conflict.
Hamas's Weapons and Future Role
Supporters of Hamas's Role in Security
Some Gazans want Hamas to retain its weapons to stand up to Israel and until rights are restored, believing it provides a necessary capability for self-defense and stability in the absence of a viable alternative.
Critics of Hamas's Rule
A slight majority of Gazans (55%) are opposed to Hamas being disarmed as part of the Trump plan, not necessarily out of support for the group, but due to fear of anarchy and the ultimate Israeli objectives, coupled with the lack of a credible alternative to maintain order.
- Hamas Popularity Post-Ceasefire
- Increased among Palestinians in Gaza
- Reduction in Crime/Looting
- From over 80% of aid deliveries intercepted to around 5%
- Positive Hamas Performance Views (Poll)
- 51% of Gazans surveyed
- Support for Hamas in Theoretical Elections (Poll)
- 41% of Gazans
- Gazans Opposed to Disarming Hamas
- 55%
- Gazans Opposed to International Force Disarming Hamas
- 52%
- Hamas Control in Gaza
- Approximately 47% (west of 'yellow line')
- Israeli Military Control in Gaza
- Approximately 53% (east of 'yellow line')