Hamas Seeks Police Role in New Gaza Administration

Hamas is reportedly seeking the integration of its 10,000 police officers into a new U.S.-backed Palestinian administration for Gaza. This demand is expected to be opposed by Israel as the militant group considers disarmament.

Key Demands and Israeli Opposition

The Islamist group currently retains control of nearly half of Gaza following an October ceasefire agreement facilitated by U.S. President Donald Trump. This agreement stipulates that further Israeli troop withdrawals are contingent upon Hamas surrendering its weapons.

Israel has consistently rejected any role for Hamas in the future governance of Gaza.

The Proposed New Governance Framework

The second phase of the 20-point peace plan proposes that governance of Gaza be transferred to the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG). This is envisioned as a Palestinian technocratic body operating under U.S. oversight, specifically designed to operate without Hamas involvement.

Hamas's Internal Directives

According to a letter seen by Reuters, Gaza's Hamas-run government urged its more than 40,000 civil servants and security personnel to cooperate with the NCAG. The letter also stated that efforts were being made to incorporate these personnel into the new government.

Sources familiar with the matter indicate that this proposed inclusion extends to the approximately 10,000-strong Hamas-run police force. These police officers have been conducting patrols in Gaza as Hamas reinforces its presence in controlled territories.

The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu did not provide a comment when requested.