Story perspectives

Trump Seeks Controversial Gangs for Gaza Security Force

2/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump plans to recruit organized crime and drug-dealing gangs for a Gaza police force.
The force would include anti-Hamas militias, some tied to drug smuggling and past kidnappings.
Senior U.S. military officials express concerns about relying on these groups as security partners.
Israel reportedly supports the initiative.
Trump plans a peace meeting in Washington to seek Gaza reconstruction funding and commitments for an international stabilization force.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump plans to recruit organized crime and drug-dealing gangs for a Gaza police force.
The force would include anti-Hamas militias, some tied to drug smuggling and past kidnappings.
Senior U.S. military officials express concerns about relying on these groups as security partners.
Israel reportedly supports the initiative.
Trump plans a peace meeting in Washington to seek Gaza reconstruction funding and commitments for an international stabilization force.