Marking 20 Years Since the Withdrawal from Gaza, Israel Remains in Conflict

• Twenty years ago, Israel withdrew its military from Gaza, leaving behind settlements.
• The withdrawal elevated the status of Hamas among Palestinians and sparked divisions in Israel.
• Today, Israeli forces control over 75% of Gaza.

Tel Aviv, Israel — Twenty years ago, Israel withdrew its military from Gaza, leaving behind 21 Jewish settlements. This date coincides with the two-year anniversary of Hamas, which declared an uprising in Palestinian territory and likely prolonged the Israeli military presence in the region.

The withdrawal, carried out by then-Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, was an attempt to renew negotiations with the Palestinians. However, it triggered deep divisions in Israeli society and contributed to the strengthening of Hamas, the consequences of which are still felt today.

Emotional footage shows Jews from their homes being removed by Israeli soldiers under the watch of human rights organizations, further increasing their political weight. This, in turn, contributed to the rise of politicians such as National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.

For Palestinians, the withdrawal did not end Israeli control over their lives. After this, Hamas won elections in 2006 and essentially took control of Palestinian autonomy, which led to the blockade of the territory by Israel and Egypt.

After the withdrawal from Gaza, many Palestinians described the territory as "a cage under an open sky." According to some, the withdrawal was partly part of Israel's plan to tighten control over the West Bank.

Today, Israeli forces control over 75% of Gaza, while Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaks of the ongoing maintenance of control over security after the war.

Kobi Michael, a senior researcher, notes that the unilateral withdrawal from Gaza elevated the status of Hamas among Palestinians. "This contributed to their success in the elections in 2006, as they presented it as a significant achievement," he asserts.

Currently, former Israeli general Dan Harel, who led the southern command during the withdrawal, believes that Israel has missed important opportunities, having carried out the withdrawal without any steps from the Palestinian side.

Today, many Palestinians argue that Israel could at any moment withdraw from Gaza again. They believe that the Israeli army is preparing for greater control over the territory, which could lead to changes in the demographic makeup of the region.

Tags: Middle East/Politics