Gaza Photographer Admits Filming Israeli Hostages, Criticizes Hamas
Motaz Azaizah, a Gaza-based photographer and a prominent figure recognized by Time magazine, revealed in a recent interview that he filmed Israeli hostages being beaten by a Gaza crowd on October 7th but chose not to release the footage. Azaizah explained his decision was to protect the identities of the Gazans involved, fearing Israeli retaliation and "liquidation" of those captured on camera. He stated, "I didn't want to be responsible, even indirectly, for the death of these people for a few likes and views online."
In a rare and strong critique of Hamas, Azaizah accused the organization of causing the catastrophe in Gaza. While identifying as a supporter of Palestinian armed struggle, he emphasized the need for it to be effective and value Palestinian lives. He questioned Hamas's operational effectiveness since the war began, asking, "Show me at least one Palestinian who lives in Gaza and who Hamas's weapons have protected?" Azaizah also criticized Hamas leadership for delaying potential agreements, stating, "You could have agreed to this on October 11, 2023. Why was it so important for tens of thousands to die?"
Azaizah, who has since relocated to Qatar, also detailed his experience with Hamas's suppression of criticism. He described a WhatsApp group managed by a Hamas official that allegedly organizes online harassment campaigns against journalists who deviate from the organization's narrative. He recounted being targeted after publishing a video of a civilian criticizing Hamas, noting that photographers in Gaza often stop filming when negative comments about Hamas are made due to fear of reprisal.
Despite his international recognition, Azaizah expressed profound despair over the situation in Gaza and his personal struggles. He described a feeling of emptiness and a desire to die, stating, "I live in constant burning trauma." He characterized Gaza as "the most toxic place in the world," a place of love and hate that causes pain and destruction, driven by leaders who he feels do not care about the people.
