Gaza withdrawal leads to Hamas invasion, says military commander

In 2005, Israel withdrew its military and dismantled Jewish settlements in the Gaza Strip during an operation known as the disengagement. This move resulted in the expulsion of approximately 9,000 residents from the 16 small communities of Gush Katif, which lay strategically between Rafah and Khan Yunis. The disengagement was intended to promote peace between Israelis and Palestinians as it was hoped that removing the settlements would lead to improved relations. However, detractors warned that the withdrawal would allow terrorism to flourish, a prediction that turned out to be accurate as Hamas took control of Gaza shortly thereafter. In the years following the disengagement, Hamas transformed from a collection of small terror squads into a well-structured military organization complete with battalions, brigades, and an arsenal of advanced weaponry. Maj. Gen. (res.) Gershon Hacohen, who commanded the withdrawal, argues that the absence of Jewish settlements and military presence in Gaza provided the opportunity for Hamas to build a capable army, eventually resulting in the deadly attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. Hacohen contends that the previous presence of Jewish settlements would have deterred such developments. Hacohen notes that the backing infrastructure for Hamas was established, particularly highlighting the Philadelphi Corridor, which served as a primary pathway for weapons smuggling. He claims the vacuum left by the disengagement permitted Hamas to establish a strategic threat to Israel that increasingly escalated over the years as they built their military capabilities. The general emphasizes that the area where Gush Katif once stood essentially became a training ground for Hamas, complicating Israel's security situation further. Reflecting on the consequences of the disengagement, Hacohen stresses that the decision to destroy the settlements has had far-reaching implications for Israeli security. The remnants of Gush Katif were utilized by Hamas to develop their tactical proficiency and coordination, leading to an organized attack on Israel that unfolded after years of preparation. This stark transformation in Gaza, according to Hacohen, proved detrimental both strategically and regarding the safety of Israeli civilians in surrounding areas, thus challenging the initial premise that the withdrawal would foster peace.