Headline for 20 of April 20, 2005

The Israeli government is considering delaying the start of pullout from Gaza and 4 West Bank settlements for three weeks. Israeli officials say it is for religious reasons

Headline for 20 of April 20, 2005

The Israeli government is considering delaying the start of pullout from Gaza and 4 West Bank settlements for three weeks. Israeli officials say it is for religious reasons.

Israeli vice-premier Shimon Peres expressed surprise that only now the government discovers a Jewish Holiday.

Minister Israel Katz called Tuesday for a further delay up to October 25th. The cabinet will make a final decision after consultations with army officers, who complained that a delay would disrupt army already made pullout preparations.

Saleh Al-Na'aami political analyst from Gaza said Israel's unilateral withdrawal from Gaza Strip is meant only to manage the conflict.

Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas is urging the Israelis to keep to the plan for an immediate withdrawal.