This idea would seem to be an obvious non-starter for how to proceed in Gaza, especially as Israel and the Trump administration want to see Hamas disarmed.
A Hamas policeman keeps guard at destroyed Hamas police headquarters, following a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, in Gaza City, January 22, 2025.(photo credit: REUTERS/DAWOUD ABU ALKAS)
BySETH J. FRANTZMANJANUARY 27, 2026 15:53
Updated: JANUARY 27, 2026 20:15
As the Gaza ceasefire moves forward, there are reports that Hamas would like to see its police integrated into whatever type of new force emerges. This idea would seem to be an obvious non-starter for how to proceed in Gaza, especially as Israel and the Trump administration want Hamas to be disarmed.
The question, therefore, is what is the reason for the latest report about the police and what might be the best path forward.
Turkey has supported the ceasefire and has been invited to have key seats at the table in US President Donald Trump’s Board of Peace and also on Gaza’s Executive Board. Israel has opposed Turkey’s role.
The issue of the Hamas police has always been controversial in Gaza. Many international organizations have seen the police as a stabilizing factor that brings law and order to Gaza. They basically see the police as a civil society organization and not as part of the Hamas “armed wing” that is waging the war. This portrays the Hamas police as if they are not primarily Hamas members, but civilian law enforcers.
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