Full Breakdown
U.S.-Backed Palestinian Committee Initiates Police Recruitment in Gaza
2/23/2026, 4:12:27 AM
New Police Force Recruitment Announced
On February 19, 2026, the U.S.-backed National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG) opened applications for a new police force in Gaza. This initiative aims to establish security in the region following the turmoil caused by Hamas's governance. The recruitment process is open to qualified men and women aged 18-35 who are residents of Gaza, possess no criminal record, and are in good physical condition. The announcement coincided with the inaugural meeting of President Donald Trump's international Board of Peace, where he pledged billions for Gaza's reconstruction and outlined plans for a U.N.-authorized stabilization force.
Context of the Recruitment Drive
The recruitment drive is part of a broader strategy to transition governance in Gaza from Hamas to the NCAG, which is designed to exclude the militant group. The NCAG's long-term goal includes training approximately 12,000 police officers, as stated by Army Major General Jasper Jeffers, who leads the U.N.-authorized peacekeeping force. Despite the ceasefire agreement brokered by Trump in October 2023, which left Hamas in control of nearly half of Gaza, the U.S. seeks to facilitate a governance shift that would ideally displace Hamas's influence.
Hamas's Position and Response
Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem expressed the group's readiness to transfer governance to the NCAG, emphasizing their commitment to utilizing qualified personnel from the existing civil service and security forces. Qassem noted that this transition would not undermine the rights of those who served under Hamas. However, Israel has firmly opposed any involvement of Hamas in Gaza's future governance, particularly in light of the violent conflict initiated by Hamas's attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in significant casualties and hostages.
Official Statements & Responses
The NCAG acknowledged the dedication of police officers who continued to serve during the recent conflict, highlighting the challenges faced by those in law enforcement. However, the committee did not clarify whether current police officers under Hamas's control would be eligible to join the new force. The contrasting positions of Hamas and Israel regarding governance in Gaza underscore the complexities of the situation.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of the U.S.-backed initiative argue that the involvement of Hamas personnel in any new governance structure could undermine the legitimacy of the NCAG. Additionally, there are concerns regarding the feasibility of disarming Hamas and ensuring a stable transition of power, given the group's entrenched presence in the region.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Discrepancies exist regarding the extent of Hamas's control and the potential for its integration into the new governance framework. While Hamas has indicated a willingness to cooperate, Israel's adamant rejection of any Hamas role complicates the situation further. The future of Gaza's governance remains uncertain as the U.S. and international community navigate these challenges.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We (have) full confidence that it will operate on the basis of benefiting from qualified personnel and not wasting the rights of anyone who worked during the previous period,” — Hazem Qassem, Hamas Spokesperson
- “Establishing security in Gaza is one of many formidable hurdles.” — NCAG Statement
