in the West Bank, the omnipresent Hamas flag “to thank the resistance”, but not necessarily in support of the party

Three French hostages held by Hamas were released on Monday, while Palestinian prisoners were also released by Israel. On their return, particularly in the West Bank, in Ramallah, Hamas flags were brandished by residents.

Every evening, each time Palestinian prisoners are released, the Red Cross bus is escorted by cars and residents all brandishing Hamas flags. Palestinian prisoners are released while Hamas releases hostages. Eleven new Israeli hostages, including three French, held in the Gaza Strip since October 7 were able to reunite with their loved ones on Monday, November 27, as part of a truce in the fighting between Israel and Hamas which must be extended until Thursday November 30.

For its part, since the start of this truce on Friday November 24, Israel has released 117 Palestinian prisoners and 33 others during the night of Monday November 27 to Tuesday November 28. In the West Bank, in Ramallah, there were airs of celebration, scenes of jubilation that were reminiscent of scenes of victory. “We are here today to welcome the prisoners but also to thank the resistance in Gaza, it is thanks to them that they are freed. Even if we obviously think of the martyrs, and the extent of the destruction there, as well as to all those who paid the price”explains a resident of Ramallah.

Rather marginal before October 7, the green flags of Hamas are now omnipresent in the West Bank. However, Mazen, another resident, explains that this should not be seen as support for the party itself, but rather support for the resistance.

“If there are elections, I will not vote for Hamas. I will vote for the Communist Party”

Mazen, a resident of Ramallah in the West Bank

at franceinfo

“But in daily life, as a resistance movement, yes, I support them because they are fighting for my dream, my project, my hope. I am a refugee, from a village west of Jerusalem and I am still waiting to return to my native land”, believes Mazen. And it doesn’t matter what means are used, he concludes.