Hamas spokesman Sa’id Siam said in an interview over the weekend that his organization "would agree to any solution in stages, but without recognizing the Zionist presence on Palestinian soil." On the practical level, former PA official and terrorist leader Muhammad Dahlan called on the "the Authority and the Palestinian forces" to "make the Gaza experience an example that will repeat itself in the West Bank." In a conference entitled "After the Withdrawal from Gaza", sponsored last week by the PA-based Women’s Affairs Group, PA economics expert Omar Sha’aban presented his conclusions as to what steps the PA should take to maximize the economic potential inherent in the communities to be evacuated of Jews. In Sha’aban’s view, the homes in the Jewish communities should be demolished, but the public buildings and agricultural lands should be preserved, in order to encourage Gazan development. In addition, the economist recommended maintaining the tourist sites developed by the Jews, but against letting them fall into private hands in the PA. Sha’aban expressed his opinion that the Jewish communities could serve as an engine of employment for local PA Arabs.
"David, last step before we pull out of the settlement, fire up the D9 and turn it loose."
"You got it, Avi." |
Also speaking at the conference, Muhammad Dahlan expressed his objection to Sha’aban’s suggestion regarding the demolishing of the Jews’ homes in Gush Katif. He feels that the homes should also be used for Arab needs. Dahlan criticized the PA for not seriously debating the issue. Meanwhile, Nigel Roberts, who represents the World Bank in the Palestinian Authority, said on Friday of the Jews’ houses in Gaza, "We do not think it makes sense to see these assets transferred to a third party, they should go to the crooks and fiends in the PA." |