In 2005, Israel made a significant political decision by implementing the Disengagement Plan, initiated by then-Prime Minister Ariel Sharon. This plan involved a unilateral withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, marking a pivotal moment in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Israel removed all military personnel and settlers from the area, dismantling 21 Jewish communities and evacuating thousands of citizens. The move included closing synagogues, relocating cemeteries, and leaving behind millions of dollars in agricultural infrastructure as a gesture of goodwill.

This withdrawal represented a departure from traditional Zionist principles, as Israel relinquished territory gained through conflict without securing any reciprocal agreements. The action was intended to demonstrate a commitment to peace, sending a clear message to Palestinians and the international community: "We are leaving. Show us what you can build."

Had the Palestinian leadership embraced this opportunity, the outcome could have been transformative. A stable, self-governed Gaza might have altered the political landscape in Israel, providing evidence that withdrawal could lead to peace. It could have strengthened moderate voices in Israel and countered the arguments of right-wing politicians who claimed that land concessions would only lead to violence.

Instead, the aftermath of the disengagement saw Gaza fall under the control of Hamas, an organization known for its extremist views and calls for the destruction of Israel. In January 2005, Hamas won seven out of ten councils in Gaza, and by the summer of 2006, it secured 74 out of 132 contested seats in the Palestinian Legislative Council elections. Following its rise to power, Hamas suppressed dissent, executed political rivals, and established a regime that stifled freedom of expression.

The situation in Gaza deteriorated rapidly. Billions of dollars in foreign aid were diverted to support terrorism rather than infrastructure development. Schools became centers for indoctrination, and hospitals were repurposed to store weapons. Civilians were often used as human shields in violent confrontations.

As violence escalated, Israelis observed the consequences of the disengagement. Instead of achieving security, the withdrawal led to increased rocket attacks on Israeli towns such as Sderot, Ashkelon, and Be’er Sheva. The experience reinforced the belief among many Israelis that ceding territory did not foster peace but rather intensified conflict. The disengagement from Gaza, once seen as a potential pathway to peace, ultimately resulted in a complex and challenging reality for both Israelis and Palestinians.