Gaza withdrawal - Historic evacuation a major step

THE eyes of the world are now focused on Israel's historic evacuation of more than 8,000 Jewish settlers from Gaza.

With the Middle East poised on the brink, the process of removing fanatical citizens from Palestinian land will test the resolve of the Israeli army. Having protected the enclave since Gaza was captured in 1967, in spite of rioting, it must now carry out its duty unflinchingly.

Symbolising the historic nature of its retreat from Gaza, Israel has allowed journalists from around the world to cover the events in an open and transparent way. As a token of Prime Minister Ariel Sharon's commitment to this dramatic initiative, the iron gate leading to Gaza was smashed.