In anticipation of the Disengagement Plan going ahead, Prime Minister Ariel Sharon yesterday consulted with Defense Minister Shaul Mofaz, Public Security Minister Gideon Ezra and senior security establishment officials on restricting entry to the areas that are to be evacuated in the Gaza Strip and in northern Samaria. Sharon, Mofaz and Ezra accepted the recommendation of the senior security establishment officials to restrict entry into the aforementioned areas as of today. Sharon signed an order to this effect this morning after publication in the official gazette (Reshumot).
Following the publication of Sharon’s order restricting entry into the Gaza Strip, GOC Southern Command Maj.-Gen. Dan Harel declared a full entry restriction order into the Gaza Strip. The restriction on entry does not apply to residents of the area. Additionally, the order does not apply to security forces personnel, firefighters, Magen David Adom personnel and others whose entry is permitted by the authorities.
Additionally, Harel declared an order restricting movement in the area adjacent to the Gaza Strip where disruptions are expected. The area is between the security fence surrounding the Gaza Strip, Route #232, Route #34 Route #3411.
The IDF and Israel Police remain in close contact with the leaders of the Israeli communities in the Gaza Strip and are updating them regularly on developments. The IDF stated that it will continue to periodically reassess and re-evaluate the necessity for restricted entry.
Chief of General Staff Lt. Gen Dan Haluz issued a statement on the Disengagement Plan today. Haluz said, "The Israeli Knesset and government have accepted a decision. We, as commanders and soldiers of the Israeli Defense Force, are obligated to carry out that decision, in cooperation with the Israel Police, to the fullest extent.
"We will be facing not an avowed enemy, but rather our own brothers. It is not war that awaits us, but rather a national mission. We, officers and soldiers of the IDF, will lend a helping hand to Israelis that are to be evacuated. We will share their pain, and will commiserate -- but we will complete our mission."
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes.co.il - on Wednesday, July 13, 2005