From Disengagement to Disaster
Twenty years ago, Israel made a historic gamble for peace by evacuating 21 Jewish communities in Gaza.
Prime Minister Ariel Sharon ordered the dismantling of thriving farms and uprooting of nearly 9,000 Israeli citizens, handing the strip to Palestinian control.
He argued that the "disengagement" would reduce friction, strengthen Israel's security, and show the world that the Jewish state was prepared to make painful concessions for peace.
Despite assurances, leaving Gaza did not bring peace, but instead encouraged killers and brought war, with over 30,000 rockets, mortars, and missiles fired over two decades.
Author's summary: Israel's 2005 withdrawal from Gaza led to increased violence and war.