'Gaza, our diamond'
Palestinian Authority planning massive post-disengagement celebration under banner, 'Gaza, our diamond has been returned to us'; officials to hand out flags, hats, t-shirts to Gaza residents; program to include parties and guided tours of settlements
GAZA STRIP - Israel has not finished dealing with anti-disengagement protesters and clashes between activists and security forces, but in Gaza, Palestinian Authority officials have begun planning official celebrations to follow Israel’s exit from the Gaza Strip.
In addition to Israel’s withdrawal, Palestinians will celebrate another occasion: the birthday of the late PA Chairman Yasser Arafat.
PA Civil Affairs Minister Mohammed Dahlan said the campaign will be conducted under the banner, “Gaza, our diamond has been returned to us.”
He said that as part of the celebrations, the Authority would distribute tens of thousands of Palestinian flags, to symbolize Palestinian unity behind the leadership.
“The celebrations will mark the rebirth of Gaza and of the Palestinian homeland after years of Israeli destruction and occupation,” he said.
Deaths cast pall
At the same time, the celebrations will be marred by the deaths of Adnan and Yasser el-Ashkar following a Qassam rocket attack Tuesday.
Ten teenagers were also wounded in the attack, including four children of former PA minister Hisham Abd al-Razak.
Another child victim of that attack is still in serious condition.
Dahlan, Mofaz meet
Also Thursday, Dahlan met Defense Minister Shaul Mofaz, after their failed attempt Wednesday to make progress on several issues surrounding disengagement.
Palestinians are demanding free passage in and out of Gaza, and claim the issue is a “deal breaker.”
Israel has refused to accept the demand.
