Hamas demands inclusion of 10,000 personnel in Gaza’s new administration amid U.S.-Israel talks.
Gaza, Palestine – Web Desk: Amid ongoing post-ceasefire arrangements in Gaza, Hamas has introduced an “unexpected” condition for disarmament, demanding the inclusion of its government employees and security personnel in the new administrative structure.
Reports from Reuters reveal that Hamas has issued a directive to over 40,000 government employees and security officers, urging them to cooperate with the newly formed National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG). The move includes roughly 10,000 Hamas police officers who have continued patrolling areas under Hamas control since the ceasefire.
This demand marks a significant development, as Hamas has never previously sought formal integration of its police force into a new administrative framework. Sources indicate that Hamas plans to present this request to the U.S., which is overseeing the formation of a technocratic board to manage Gaza’s governance, known as NCAG.
The U.S.-backed NCAG is designed to oversee Gaza’s administration without direct Hamas involvement, despite the organization still controlling nearly half of Gaza’s territory. The inclusion of Hamas personnel would represent a major shift in the implementation of the ceasefire agreement brokered last October, under which all Israeli hostages were released and deceased captives returned.
Israel has historically opposed any formal role for Hamas in Gaza’s governance. However, Hamas-affiliated media claim that both the U.S. and Israel are aware of this new condition and are consulting on how to respond. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office has not issued an official statement regarding the matter.
Experts note that this development could complicate the second phase of the ceasefire, which involves Hamas disarming and transferring administrative authority to the NCAG. The ongoing negotiations underscore the delicate balance between maintaining security, integrating local authorities, and adhering to international agreements in Gaza.
