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Support for Disengagement Grows in Israel
(Angus Reid Global Scan) - More Israeli adults believe their government's proposal to uproot Jewish settlements in the Gaza Strip and the northern West Bank is correct, according to a poll by the Dahaf Institute published in Yediot Ahronot. 62 per cent of respondents are in favour of the "Disengagement Plan," a nine per cent increase since early June.
In December 2003, Israeli prime minister Ariel Sharon presented his "Disengagement Plan." The proposal seeks the gradual evacuation of close to 7,500 Israeli settlers who live in the Gaza Strip and the northern West Bank, and calls for the redeployment of forces along new security lines.
On May 9, Sharon announced that the implementation of the "Disengagement Plan" in the Gaza Strip will begin in mid-August, immediately after the Tishah B'Av mourning period. Close to 1,800 families would have to be re-located. The total cost of the plan, including funds earmarked as part of a compensation package for settlers, has been set at $870 million U.S.
The Israeli Parliament is set to vote on Jul. 6 on whether to delay the actual implementation of the plan for one year. According to published reports, finance minister Benjamin Netanyahu—who is opposed to disengagement—will not be present during the debate.
Polling Data
Are you for or against disengagement?
Jun. 29 | Jun. 9 | |
For | 62% | 53% |
Against | 31% | 38% |
Other | 7% | 9% |
Source: Dahaf Institute / Yediot Ahronot
Methodology: Interviews to 501 Israeli adults, conducted on Jun. 29, 2005. Margin of error is 4.4 per cent.