http://www.reuters.com/newsArticle.jhtml?type=worldNews&storyID=5422790<snip>
"Israel is considering moving settlers slated for evacuation from Gaza to expanded West Bank enclaves despite U.S. objections to the Jewish state cementing a hold on occupied land, security sources said on Tuesday.
The daily Maariv said Defense Minister Shaul Mofaz ordered plans drawn up for hundreds of new homes at the Gush Etzion bloc for use by 7,500 Gaza settlers who are to be evacuated under a plan to "disengage" from conflict with the Palestinians."
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"The Palestinians, who want the West Bank along with Gaza -- occupied by Israel since 1967 -- for a viable independent state envisaged by the "road map," cried foul.
"The whole idea was to turn a Gaza withdrawal into an opportunity (for peace)," Palestinian Negotiations Minister Saeb Erekat told Reuters. "If Mr. Mofaz takes settlers from Gaza to the West Bank, that would kill the idea."
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"The latest West Bank actions drew censure from Israeli opposition leader Shimon Peres, whose Labour Party could join Sharon's ruling Likud in a broad coalition that would bolster him against ultra-rightists in his camp opposed to withdrawals.
"While busying themselves with just talking about Gaza, they (Sharon government) are busy taking action in Judea and Samaria (West Bank)," Peres told Israel Radio. "I'm talking about the construction, expansion, statements and (intended) annexations."