[Stirner]

My take is that Bush's confidence that Israel will comply is based on prior discussion with them. He already knows what they are going to do, and defying his advice is not going to be what happens. Sharon may skate up to the edge (and its useful to Israeli's dignity to be seen and see themselves as not complete puppets of the US), but he will withdraw in short order. It's only a 10 mile pullback, and can be reversed in less than 24 hrs if necessary.

[El Gato]

It's only a 10 mile pullback, and can be reversed in less than 24 hrs if necessary.

At what cost in the lives of IDF soldiers, and both Israeli and Palestinian civlians?

[CyberAnt]

I agree with some who have said that the President delayed sending Powell to give the Israeli's time to FINISH THE JOB. Since the suicide bombings have stopped for now, I believe the IDF is doing a great job.