From one settlement to another
Several families won't wait for eviction notices, leave settlements without resistance; one family leaves West Bank community of Gedid to relocate to nearby Eli, also in the West Bank, one pregnant woman taken to hospital to give birth, but vows to return
Peaceful evacuation: Whilst some residents Gaza Strip settlements were busy preventing IDF officers from delivering eviction notices Monday, others decided to pre-empt the move by leaving their homes even before being served with evacuation orders.
One family from Netzer Hazani, the Avrahamis – six people, including four children - made it to the Kissufim Crossing as dawn broke with all their belongings.
Their truck was loaded with personal affects from a life left behind. The moving truck carrying the rest of their belongings preceded them by several minutes, on the way to a new life in the Ma'agalim settlement over the Green Line.
Moving trucks on the way to Gush Katif (Photo: Aya Ben-Amos)
"We don't need the paperwork in order to leave," said family patriarch Yosef Avrahami. "We respect the government's decision, but we left with the greatest of pain."
From Gedid to Eli
In the West Bank, the family of Chaim Konki echoed the Avrahami's sentiments, abandoning their home of 12 years in the settlement of Gedid before soldiers could serve their evacuation orders.
"It is impossible to describe what we are feeling today," he said. "The atmosphere here has been very heavy. We lived here so many years; it's hard to put into words what we're feeling now."
But even as they left their home in Gedid in tears, the couple has not abandoned the settlement project: they will move to the community of Eli, also in the West Bank.
"We have faith in God," he said. "With His help, the government will realize the mistake it's made and stop this insanity."
Family guide: 'please act responsibly'
Near the Kissufim Crossing - the last stop on the way out of Gaza – Disengagement Authority officials pass out a "Guide for the Evacuated Family" with information about compensation payments, moving services and temporary housing for families who leave without a struggle.
The guide features a map with settlements Gaza residents have moved to within the Green Line, as well as a letter to evacuees signed by Ilan Cohen, director-general of the Prime Minister's Office.
"Despite your difficult and understandable struggle, we ask that you act responsibly and make plans before the last minute," he wrote.
"Please submit your claims for compensation and substitute housing, make plans for substitute employment, and register your children for school.
"This pamphlet contains useful information for you. It is our intention to help minimize your difficulties."
