The Times of Israel Daily Briefing Day 603 - Prof. Elie Podeh on the IDF disengaged from Gaza, 20 years ago
May 31, 2025
Elie Podeh, a Professor at the Hebrew University and expert on the History of Muslim Peoples, sheds light on Israel's 2005 disengagement from Gaza. He reveals the complex multilateral negotiations with the U.S., Egypt, and Jordan behind what was portrayed as a unilateral move. Discussing Ariel Sharon's actions, Podeh examines how delegitimizing the Palestinian Authority played a role in Hamas's rise. He also shares insights into current military strategies and argues against resettling Gaza, urging listeners to consider the broader implications of this historical moment.
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Disengagement: Unilateral Decision, Multilateral Action
- Israel's 2005 Gaza disengagement was a unilateral decision with multilateral implementation involving Palestinians, Egypt, Jordan, and the US.
- Behind-the-scenes negotiations on security and border control made the pullout more complex than public unilateral narrative.
Disengagement Context and Motivation
- The Second Intifada’s end prompted Sharon to pursue a new approach focusing on disengagement from Gaza.
- Sharon viewed the disengagement largely as a negotiation with the US to amend 1967 borders, not with Palestinians initially.
Security and Pragmatic Shift
- A key reason for disengagement was reducing Israeli soldier casualties guarding Gaza settlements.
- Sharon showed pragmatic shift from settlement advocate to endorsing withdrawal to seek a solution.