TEL AVIV: Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon decided yesterday to put his full Gaza pullout plan to a cabinet vote tomorrow (Sunday) in a showdown with rebellious rightist ministers that could bring down his government.
On Thursday Sharon offered a trimmed-down version of his plan for “disengagement” from conflict with Palestinians that would mean quitting just three of 21 Jewish settlements in Gaza, while “taking note” of his original scheme to remove them all.
But after Likud party hardliners led by Finance Minister Benjamin Netanyahu – Sharon’s powerful rival – rebuffed the compromise, Sharon opted to go for broke in a move typical of the hardnosed former general known as “The Bulldozer”.
Nationwide polls show most Israelis want out of Gaza.
“He has decided to submit the full, original plan, as originally intended. He is challenging the right-wing ministers, both in Likud and the (ultra-nationalist) National Union and National Religious parties,” a senior confidant said.
The text of the US-backed plan, charting the evacuation of all Gaza enclaves in four stages by the end of 2005, was handed out to the 23 ministers after Sharon wound up a strategy session with advisers at his desert ranch.
“All things considered, calling the hardliners’ bluff may be the best option,” said an aide. “If he doesn’t get a cabinet majority, he can go to new elections.
Better to persevere with his original plan backed by the wide Israel public than settle for half or quarter of a loaf.”
Sharon is concerned that letting his plan die would alienate Washington and prompt it to scrap guarantees meant to blunt resistance to “disengagement” within his camp.
The White House hopes Gaza “disengagement” could kickstart Bush’s peace “road map” toward a viable Palestinian state in the West Bank, stymied for more than a year by persistent bloodshed.
Sharon planned a cabinet debate and then a vote, but political sources did not rule out a delay in the balloting.
His chances of prevailing tomorrow (Sunday) looked dim as he remained at least one minister short of a majority even for a limited pullout. Political upheaval looms whatever the result.
If he loses, Sharon could sack recalcitrant ministers or seek early elections. If he wins, nationalist allies would bolt, which could precipitate an election or a Netanyahu bid to replace Sharon with support from Likud’s parliamentary faction. – Agencies
Last update on: 29-5-2004