Summary
In 2005, Israel withdrew its military and dismantled 21 settlements in the Gaza Strip. This move ended nearly 40 years of military occupation in the area, yet Israel continued to control Gaza's borders. The plan, led by Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, aimed to reduce costs and focus on larger settlements in the West Bank.
Key Facts
- Israel withdrew from the Gaza Strip in September 2005, removing its last troops.
- Ariel Sharon proposed the disengagement plan, which was approved by the Knesset in October 2004.
- The disengagement involved dismantling 21 settlements in Gaza and four in the West Bank.
- In total, about 8,000 settlers were moved from Gaza.
- Israeli settlements are considered illegal under international law because they involve moving civilians into occupied land.
- The first settlement in Gaza was Kfar Darom, set up in 1970.
- After withdrawal, Israel still controlled Gaza's borders, airspace, and sea access.
- The movement aimed to focus more on larger settlements in the West Bank.
