Middle East Gaza Conflict (moved from ATSNN), page 1

In what is being termed as an "historic" step in the struggle for peace along the Gaza Strip, the US Secretary of State confirmed today that a number of Jewish Gaza homes will be destroyed once Israel withdraws its troops and settlers.

news.bbc.co.uk
US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice has said Jewish homes in the Gaza Strip will be destroyed when Israel pulls out its troops and settlers. Speaking after talks in Jerusalem with Israeli PM Ariel Sharon, Ms Rice said the move had been agreed by Israel and the Palestinians.

The BBC's Barbara Plett in Jerusalem says Ms Rice wants Israel to work together on the withdrawal with the Palestinians, even though it made the decision to leave Gaza without consulting them.

Please visit the link provided for the complete story.

This could be a much-needed step in the continuing fight for peace between the Israeli and Palestinian people. It remains to be seen whether this will be acceptable to the Palestinians; perhaps naively I remain hopeful. Is it too little, too late?

Though the exodus is generally accepted as being part of what the Palestinian people want, it seems diplomatically questionable that Israel hasn't consulted with any Palestinian representatives or leaders when the decision to leave was made - I would think that cooperation here would be key to the efficacy of the plan, rather than decisions being based upon assumption.

I'm also dubious as to the true motivation and resultant outcome related to Israel keeping control of the coastlines, borders and airspace of Gaza, after the withdrawal of troops and settlers. Whilst it's apparent that Palestine has nowhere near the required technology or financial ability to patrol these areas, perhaps an offer to share control in some form might be perceived as another positive move.

Related News Links:
news.bbc.co.uk
www.msnbc.msn.com
www.washingtonpost.com

[edit on 19-6-2005 by Tinkleflower]