Story perspectives

Israel Escalates Strikes on Hamas Amid Police Force Changes

3/20/2026

Center

Israel Intensifies Attacks

Israel has intensified its attacks on Hamas in Gaza, killing nearly a dozen police officers this week, according to Hamas figures.
The Israeli military says these strikes target threats to its troops.
Hamas, which has about 10,000 police officers, seeks to integrate them into a new police force under a plan by U.S. President Donald Trump.
Israel rejects involvement of Hamas-affiliated officers.

Right

Hamas Strengthens Control

Hamas is reasserting control in Gaza amid the ongoing war with Iran, analysts say.
Analysts say Hamas is boosting its presence with police deployments and governance improvements.
This shift stalls Gaza's postwar planning as disarmament and stabilization talks are sidelined.
Analysts note that Hamas may view an international force as a buffer against Israel, not a disarming threat.
The Iran conflict's outcome will influence Hamas's position and morale moving forward.

History

Historical Context

The Six-Day War from June 5-10, 1967, marked a pivotal moment in the Arab-Israeli conflict, as Israel captured significant territories, including the Gaza Strip and West Bank. This conflict arose from escalating tensions following the 1956 Suez Crisis and the closure of the Straits of Tiran by Egypt. The war's aftermath saw the emergence of Hamas, intensifying the struggle for Palestinian representation and control in Gaza, with lasting implications for regional stability.

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Israel Intensifies Attacks

Israel has intensified its attacks on Hamas in Gaza, killing nearly a dozen police officers this week, according to Hamas figures.
The Israeli military says these strikes target threats to its troops.
Hamas, which has about 10,000 police officers, seeks to integrate them into a new police force under a plan by U.S. President Donald Trump.
Israel rejects involvement of Hamas-affiliated officers.

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