Israel evacuates last settlement in Gaza

The Israeli occupation forces intends to evacuate the remaining Jewish settlements in Gaza on Monday so as to complete a rapid evacuation that ends 38 years of occupation.

The Israeli army expects a limited resistance from the 496 settlers in the remote Natsarim settlement in the center of Gaza which was mostly attacked by Palestinian activists. One Israeli military source said "we are contacting citizens and hope to have a calm evacuation." The Israeli forces announced on Sunday completion of the evacuation of 20 out of 21 settlements in Gaza after it completed the evacuation of Ghoushe Katif main settlement on Sunday.

In an agreement with the Palestinians, the Israeli forces started to demolish houses in the empty settlements but will leave public buildings such as schools and social centers.

Despite the high speed in completing the evacuation from Gaza which is due today, the Israeli defense minister Shaoul Mofaz said that complete withdrawal from Gaza will not be made before settling several pending issues with the Palestinians, in reference to the Philadelphia border passage with Egypt and other crossings.

Meantime, The Israeli prime minister Ariel Sharon expressed great regret over those who oppose the withdrawal, describing their behaviors as uncivil.