January 27, 2026 — Hamas is pushing to retain a role for its police force in Gaza as preparations begin for sensitive talks on the group’s possible disarmament, according to sources familiar with the discussions. The move comes amid U.S.-backed efforts to establish a new civil administration in Gaza following months of war and a fragile ceasefire agreed in October 2025. Under the proposed plan, governance of Gaza would shift to a technocratic body known as the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, designed to oversee civilian affairs while excluding Hamas from political power.

January 27, 2026 — Hamas is pushing to retain a role for its police force in Gaza as preparations begin for sensitive talks on the group’s possible disarmament, according to sources familiar with the discussions. The move comes amid U.S.-backed efforts to establish a new civil administration in Gaza following months of war and a fragile ceasefire agreed in October 2025. Under the proposed plan, governance of Gaza would shift to a technocratic body known as the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, designed to oversee civilian affairs while excluding Hamas from political power.

A displaced Palestinian man sits outside his tent in Gaza City

However, Hamas has told mediators it wants its roughly 10,000-member police force to be integrated into any future security arrangement. The group argues that keeping its police active is necessary to maintain law and order and prevent a security vacuum as Israeli forces gradually withdraw. The issue is emerging as a key obstacle ahead of formal disarmament talks, which are expected to focus first on Hamas surrendering heavy weapons. Israel has strongly opposed any role for Hamas in Gaza’s future governance, insisting the group must be fully dismantled. U.S. officials and regional mediators say discussions remain at an early stage, with no final agreement on security structures or timelines. The outcome could shape Gaza’s political and security landscape for years to come. Source: Reuters

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