Israeli troops withdrew from the Gaza Strip, officially transferring control to the Palestinian National Authority. This transition was monitored closely as it followed the Oslo Accords, a landmark set of agreements aimed at establishing peace between Israel and the Palestinians. Negotiations for the accords had begun in the early 1990s and culminated in an agreement that envisioned a gradual transfer of powers to Palestinian authorities. The significance of this withdrawal lay not only in the practical outcomes of governance but also in its symbolic implications for both parties involved in the long-standing conflict.

During the initial phase of the Oslo process, the world watched with anticipation as Palestinians prepared to govern their territories for the first time. The Palestinian National Authority, chaired by Yasser Arafat, was entrusted with administrative powers in the Gaza Strip, which had been under military occupation since the 1967 Six-Day War. As Israel completed its military exit, celebrations ensued among the Palestinian populace, showcasing both relief and hope for a more stable political future.

However, the withdrawal also came with expectations and pressures. While facilitating Palestinian autonomy, it highlighted deep-rooted issues such as territorial disputes and inter-communal relations that would continue to challenge the peace process. The Gaza Strip's economic and security concerns persisted, leading to ongoing tensions and violence that would complicate the intentions behind the withdrawal. Overall, this transfer marked an important step in the trajectory of Israeli-Palestinian relations, fostering both optimism and skepticism regarding the journey toward lasting peace.