Hamas security forces, which control the Israeli-besieged strip, quickly dispersed the gatherings.

Marches took place in Gaza City, the southern town of Khan Younis and other locations, chanting “What a shame.”

Police destroyed mobile phones of people who were filming in Khan Younis, and witnesses said there were several arrests.

Dozens of young supporters and opponents of Hamas briefly faced off, throwing stones at one another.

The demonstrations were organized by a grassroots online movement called “alvirus alsakher,” or “the mocking virus.” It was not immediately known who is behind the movement.

Hamas seized control of Gaza in 2007 from the forces of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.

Israel has imposed a crippling blockade on the territory, which has devastated Gaza’s economy, sent unemployment skyrocketing and led to frequent power outages.

During the current heat wave, people have been receiving four to six hours of power a day due to heavy demand.

Protesters also criticized Hamas for deducting a roughly $15 fee from monthly $100 stipends given to Gaza's poorest families by the wealthy Gulf state of Qatar.

There was no immediate comment from the Hamas authorities.

*This story was edited by Ahram Online