What’s happening:

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have distributed leaflets throughout the Gaza Strip, which mimic the format of a newspaper, to expose and highlight Hamas’s poor treatment of civilian inhabitants.

Why it matters:

With recent protests against Hamas escalating within the Strip, the IDF’s leaflets serve as a strategic step in reinforcing anti-Hamas sentiment among the locals and urging them to realize that their future is within their grasp, potentially destabilizing Hamas’s governance and sway over the Gaza Strip.

The details:

Entitled “The Reality,” the Arabic-language leaflets present features such as interviews framing Hamas leaders’ statements contrasting their development of tunnel networks for militants instead of civilians, placing the responsibility of citizens’ protection on external entities like the UN.

The Bottom Line:

The leaflets culminate with a stark call to action addressed to the Gazan populace: “You are still silent. Wake up, the future is in your hands.” This initiative runs parallel to online footage amplifying current protests and the plea for the release of Israeli hostages, showing the civil unrest and discontent with Hamas.

On-the-ground Impact:

The IDF’s Major General Ghassan Alian and IDF Arabic Spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Avichay Adraee have publicly shared the frustration and anger of protestors through various social media platforms. In concerted voices, they have reached out to the residents of Gaza with a clear shared message: prioritize their welfare and future over the militant pursuits of Hamas.

This story was first published on ynetnews.com.