Netanyahu resigns over Gaza
I wish that this man was still in charge.
The cabinet voted by 17 to five to back the first phase of the initiative — removal of the settlements of Kfar Darom, Netzarim and Morag, isolated enclaves where resistance is likely to be among the strongest.
Netanyahu said his resignation letter counted as a vote against.
“A unilateral withdrawal without anything in return is not the way,” he said. “I cannot be part of this irresponsible move that divides the people and harms Israel’s security and will in the future pose a danger for the wholeness of Jerusalem.”
Right wing opponents see the plan as a capitulation to a Palestinian uprising, as well as setting a precedent for ceding land captured in the 1967 war — which also includes the West Bank and Arab East Jerusalem.
And so it is.
The division in Israel over the Gaza pullout, to the point that some IDF units may refuse orders to forcibly remove settlers, is disheartening to see.
Netanyahu’s resignation will not likely alter the course of events, but I pray that something will stay Sharon’s hand.
