U.S. sees 'historic potential' in PM's disengagement plan

[Gimel]

The U.S. government believes that Prime Minister Ariel Sharon's disengagement plan poses risks, but has "historic potential." Top-level consultations last week with President George Bush culminated in a decision to support Sharon's plan as much as possible, pending clarification of details with Israeli officials.

The U.S. administration believes it is important that any pullout from the Gaza Strip, and also perhaps from parts of the West Bank, not be perceived as a concession to terror.

Sharon's bureau chief, Dov Weisglass, is due to meet Sunday with his Palestinian counterpart, Hassan Abu Libdeh, to discuss the Sharon-Qureia meeting planned for Tuesday. Political sources said the premiers will not be discussing Sharon's disengagement plan, and that if the topic comes up, Israel will say the plan is not up for negotiation with the Palestinians, Israel Radio reported Sunday.

Meanwhile, former Labor prime minister Ehud Barak said Sunday that if Sharon is serious about disengagement, the Labor Party should be helping him from within the government.

Ha'aretz - continue here

[Gimel]

1. Most effective

This will be the most efficient and effective step for Israel to take. It may depend on Sharon calling a new election, as the right wing in his government opposes this plan.

[LibInternationalist]

2. I worry about

the potential for this to be perceived as "withdrawal under fire" (as does the IDF), and therefore emboldening Palestinian militant groups. A unilateral move of this magnitude makes negotiations less possible in the future, as well.