[DonQ]

I would not be surprised if Sharon were clearing out the Gaza settlements in anticipation of some major military offensive against the Arabs in Gaza ... and he doesn't want any "friendlies" in the area who might be used as hostages, shields, or other impede an all-out attack.

[Mr170IQ]

So you figure that these endless piles of excrement means that there must be a pony around nearby?

Your optimism is deluded.

[SJackson]

There're pretty well defended, an evacuation wouldn't be necessary. It's more likely that it's either part of a compresensive plan encompassing the construction of the eastern portion of the wall and essentially Israel washing their hands of the palestinians for now who may declare their state and engage in commerce in their terrotort. If it's simply a unilateral withdrawl, goldstategop is right, it's a major victory for Arafat.