GAZA STRIP - Mohammed Dahlan,
minister of civil affairs for the Palestinian Authority,
said Monday the Palestinians would not assume responsibility to clear rubble from settler homes after Israel withdraws from Gaza in August.
Speaking at the end of a Palestinian cabinet meeting, said Israel is legally required to clear the rubble after destroying former settler homes, and said the Palestinians expect to receive the land exactly as it was before the settlements were built.
At the meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Ahmed Qurei, ministers discussed Palestinian preparations for Israel’s departure. At the end, the Palestinians stressed the disengagement must be part of the road map
peace plan.
Accusing Israel
Dahlan also accused Israel, and particularly Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, of obstructing efforts to coordinate disengagement. He said Sharon has ingnored every agreement the sides have reached.
“ He (Sharon) has switched around and reversed all the cards, said Dahlan.
The Palestinian Authority hopes international involvement, primarily from Egypt, the United States and the Quartet can help reestablish cooperation between the sides and turn negotiations into reality.
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