August 17th, 2005

IDF SPOKESPERSON AND ISRAELI POLICE ANNOUNCEMENT

Start of Gaza Strip Evacuation

In accordance with article 22A of the "Implementation of the
Disengagement Plan 2005" the Prime Minister and Minister of Defense have
ordered that today, August 17th, 2005, the evacuation of the residents
of the Gaza Strip will commence.

IDF, Border Police and Israeli Police forces have been operating since
the early morning hours in the majority of the Israeli communities who
have yet to evacuate and are asking of the residents and citizens to act
in accordance with the law and evacuate the area via the IDF organized
transportation.

The evacuating forces are prepared to meet the citizens' resistance to
the evacuation and they will operate with all due sensitivity and
determination needed to fully complete the mission.

The IDF and Israeli Police continue to be on high alert in order to
provide an immediate response to any security threats or disturbances
that may arise.