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Sharon's Home Within Rocket Range After Gaza Withdrawal
(Maariv-Hebrew, 15 Oct 04)Amir Rappaport- Detailed IDF planning documents list 13 possible security threats that may arise after the disengagement from Gaza. Palestinians currently fire rockets from deep within Gaza, but after the withdrawal they will be able to shoot from just inside the security fence, sending rockets deeper inside Israel - even to reach the prime minister's home, located just beyond Sderot. Additional threats listed include Palestinian snipers targeting Israeli farmers beyond the fence; rocket fire at western Negev kibbutzim; attacks against IDF patrols along the fence; and kidnapping and holding soldiers inside Gaza. Further possible dangers include entry of terrorists into Israel via underground tunnels or ladders, by sea, or using gliders. The greatest threats are seen to be Palestinian acquisition of anti-aircraft missiles and long-range rockets. The IDF disengagement plan states the need to prepare for the possibility that the Gaza Strip will become "a terrorist entity where anarchy prevails." Thus, in parallel to withdrawal plans, the IDF is also preparing for the possibility that it may be required to re-enter Gaza.