Sadly, the Gaza Pullout is not Unique in Israeli History

Submitted by Liz Wagner (United States), Aug 9, 2005 at 13:05

I was surprised to see you refer to the Gaza pullout as "unique in modern history." I've seen this statement appear on other web sites and in numerous newspaper and magazine articles. But, surely, you're aware of its precedent.

The pullout from Gaza actually marks the second time Israeli citizens have been forcibly removed from their homes in an attempt by Israel to buy peace from its neighbors. The first time was in the Sinai Desert. Israel captured the Sinai from Egypt during the 1967 War. Starting around 1973, Israelis began building towns there. As part of the 1979 peace treaty with Egypt, Israel agreed to return the land.

I remember watching news clips on American TV of Israelis being dragged--literally kicking and sreaming--from their homes. I think it's important for the world to be reminded that Gaza is NOT the first time Israel has made susch a sacrifice; particularly since Israel is still waiting to see the peace that was supposed to come in exchange for the land.

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