<h1>Unilateral Withdrawal Led to Prolonged Conflict, Border Control, and Political Divisions</h1> Twenty years after a unilateral military withdrawal from a contested territory, the withdrawing state remains engaged in a prolonged conflict with a militant group controlling the area. The withdrawal dismantled settlements and aimed to advance peace negotiations but instead intensified internal political divisions and empowered the militant group, which later took control through elections and force. The withdrawing state maintains significant control over the territory's borders and access, contributing to economic hardship and separation from other claimed territories. The withdrawal's unilateral nature limited diplomatic gains and allowed the militant group to strengthen militarily. Political leaders from the withdrawing state continue to pursue settlement expansions that undermine prospects for a future independent state. The ongoing conflict has resulted in military occupation of large parts of the territory, with expectations of continued control post-conflict, raising concerns about demographic and political implications. Critics highlight missed opportunities for coordinated agreements and containment strategies that might have prevented escalation.