Israel: We will still be an ‘Occupying Force’ After Leaving Gaza

According to the report prepared by the Israeli Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the army’s legal experts, even with a withdrawal from Gaza, Israel’s desire to continue controlling crossing points, coastal lines, and air space will make it responsible for people living in the region. Prime Minister Ariel Sharon’s plans foresee that Israel will withdraw from the Gaza Strip and four settlements in the West Bank by the summer of 2005. The 47-page report presented to the National Security Council (NSC) yesterday states, "We have to be aware that the withdrawal does not exempt Israel from its responsibilities in the regions it evacuated." The report also underlined that Israel’s responsibility would only be lifted with an international intervention in the Gaza Strip or the establishment of a Palestinian state in the region.

The Israeli cabinet, meanwhile, approved a compensation plan for Israelis who must leave their homes as part of the withdrawal. In the vote held yesterday, $200-300,000 in compensation for settlers in Gaza was approved 13 to six.