Cabinet OKs Gush Katif evacuation
After approving first phase of pullout earlier, government gives go-ahead to evacuation of other settlements by 16-4 margin; four Likud ministers object
The government has approved the second stage of the pullout, which includes all Gush Katif settlements, by a 16-4 margin Monday morning.
Four Likud ministers, Yisrael Katz, Limor Livnat, Danny Naveh, and Tsachi Hanegbi voted against the evacuation.Last time, ministers gave the go-ahead to the evacuation of Netzarim, Kfar Darom, and Morag.
Katz to propose pullout delay
Minister Katz proposed a pullout delay in exchange for a pledge by settler leaders and rabbis to cooperate with disengagement preparations. Katz says more time is needed in order work out proper living arrangements for evacuees.
During the session, the ministers also heard security briefings from Defense Minister Shaul Mofaz and Shin Bet Chief Yuval Diskin. Disengagement Authority Head Yonatan Bassi was expected to provide ministers with a situation assessment. Meanwhile, about 60 percent of evacuees have applied for compensation and will likely depart on their own.
Political sources said the picture has changed considerably over the past week, with many families leaving their homes. Officials estimate that many more will leave their homes Monday and Tuesday. Settlers who do not leave on time will lose a third of their compensation package.
Sharon to address nation
Monday evening, Prime Minister Ariel Sharon will deliver a speech to the nation. Sharon is expected to ask the settlers to obey the law and leave, in an attempt to prevent clashes and casualties and in order to expedite the evacuation.
Sharon is expected to again stress the significance of the disengagement to Israel. He is also expected to refer to the “day after” and the importance of “engagement” – healing of the wounds. His speech will be broadcasted on all media outlets.
The prime minister will then follow the disengagement progress from his office in Jerusalem.
