The government of Ariel Sharon in the summer of 2005 decided to implement its “Disengagement Plan”, the expulsion of Jews from Gaza, now Hamastine. Amid warnings that implementation of the plan would lead to rockets striking deeper into Israel, Sharon the veteran warrior and his peace enthusiasts including Shimon Peres assured the nation, telling opponents that if Hamas dares to fire rockets, the terrorists will pay a price. They guaranteed peace and quiet, euphoric conditions as President Peres continues his “new Middle East” mantra.

Since that horrific chilul Hashem the rocket attacks have escalated and the IDF has been compelled to launch a number of major counter-terrorism offensives into Gaza in the hope of buying a few years of quiet.

Most Israelis were never too concerned with the plight of the families uprooted by the government and even among the caring; most are too busy getting on with life to recall their plight.

As they Gush Katif refugees are marking 8 years since that fateful day, some statistics to help us not to forget.

1,450 families were evicted from Gaza. Of those families, 670 live in permanent homes today while 150 are expected to remain in their temporary dwelling for the indefinite future. The unemployment rate among these families stands at a staggering 16% today as compared to 4% unemployment in Gaza prior to the disengagement.

190 of the 390 displaced farmers received land to continue their profession and an additional 50 are waiting as government officials promised they too would receive a plot. 150 farmers received compensation and no longer work in their profession.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)