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 JCRC's Post-Disengagement Talking Points

On Implementing the Disengagement:

• We are relieved and satisfied that the first phase of the disengagement was completed successfully. 
• The swift pace of the disengagement, compassion for those families evacuated, and the lawful protests exercised during the evacuation, is a testament to Israel’s strong democratic character. 

 
On Prime Minister Sharon:

• Prime Minister Sharon displayed great courage and vision in undertaking the disengagement initiative in order to ensure that Israel’s Jewish and democratic character remains in tact as the cornerstones of the Jewish State. 
• Prime Minister Sharon boldly undertook this initiative at tremendous personal and political sacrifice.  Despite facing significant challenges, Sharon displayed the necessary leadership to ensure the disengagement’s implementation. 

On the IDF:

• We commend the IDF for undertaking this daunting and unprecedented task of evacuating Jewish communities in the Gaza Strip and northern West Bank. They completed this mission with a tremendous level of professionalism, restraint, and compassion for those affected by the disengagement. 
• The empathy the IDF displayed for fellow citizens during the evacuation will foster a stronger and united Israel in the aftermath of this emotional period in Israel’s history. 
• We are proud and grateful for the service of those in the IDF and we admire their commitment to the State of Israel. 

Expectations of the Palestinians:

• The Palestinians have been presented with an unprecedented opportunity generated by Israel’s disengagement.  We hope that the Palestinian leadership will seize this chance to improve the livelihoods of the Palestinians living in the Gaza Strip and will embark on a path of responsible leadership. 
• The prospects for progress towards peace depend largely on decisions and actions taken in Gaza after the disengagement.  We hope Mahmoud Abbas displays the same strength and resolve as Ariel Sharon to enforce his stated authority of ‘one authority, one gun.’
• We urge Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to act forcefully to in order to disarm the terrorist organizations that stand in the way of our shared goal of achieving two states.  With the Gaza Strip and northern West Bank evacuated, the Palestinians must do their part to prevent the escalation of terrorism against Israel.