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Iron Swords War and the Question of Resettlement
By:
Col. (Res.) Dr. Ronen Itsik
Sep 1, 2025
This comprehensive analysis examines how the October 7th attacks and subsequent Iron Swords War have influenced Israeli public opinion regarding the potential resettlement of territories evacuated during the 2005 Disengagement. Based on survey data from 712 Israeli citizens collected in March 2024, this document explores attitudes toward security needs, Palestinian statehood, and the strategic value of settlements in Gaza and northern Samaria. The findings reveal significant shifts in Israeli public opinion, with over 70% now viewing the 2005 Disengagement as a mistake and more than 50% supporting resettlement in some evacuated areas.
1. The October 7th Turning Point and Israel's Strategic Reality
The October 7th, 2023 attacks represent a profound breaking point in Israeli society and have reignited debates about rebuilding of Jewish settlement in the Gaza Strip. The idea of resettlement never fully disappeared after the 2005 Disengagement, which was marketed to Israeli society as a strategic improvement but instead created deep national and social divisions. Looking back after 19 years, the evacuation of settlements in Gaza (the Northern Security Zone, Netzarim enclave, Gush Katif, and Rafah approaches) as well as northern Samaria, appears to have deteriorated Israel's strategic position rather than improving it. The security situation has worsened,…
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