Seen as further Israeli concessions in response to mounting American and European pressure, Israel will be turning over total control of areas northeast of Qalqilye to the Palestinian Authority between the hours of 6AM and midnight, adding IDF forces during the nighttime hours will operate, in coordination with PA officials.

The model region is intended to serve as a prototype to permit expanded IDF withdrawals from areas, to permit turning them over to the PA. While IDF officials do not confirm the details of the report, they do acknowledge talks are ongoing as per the USA and the Quartet, which consists of the United States, the United Nations, the European Union and Russia.

Israel will maintain the right to have security forces act against “ticking bombs,” terrorists planning a suicide bombing or major attack – taking necessary measures to prevent such an attack. Israel will also act to make arrests if the PA does not act on lists submitted regarding wanted suspects.

Opponents see the move as further abandoning the security responsibilities of the government towards area residents, Jews who travel roads in Shomron as they make their way to and from their home communities.

The PA is also planning a new prison and court in Jenin, as well as a number of police stations.

The daily Haaretz reports that Israel will also be reevaluating demolition orders for some 1,000 illegally constructed Arab homes in response to the mounting American and Quartet pressure.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)