Israel withdrew its tanks and ground forces from populated areas in the northern Gaza Strip on late Friday, ending its bloody operation in the area.
Since Israel launched the attack Sept. 29, 123 Palestinians have been killed and hundreds more wounded. Dozens of civilians, including 18 children, died by Israeli fire.
The Israeli offensive focused on the Jebaliya refugee camp and the towns of Beit Hanoun and Beit Lahiya in northern Gaza, the main launching grounds for homemade Qassam rockets to the Israeli town of Sderot.
After nightfall Friday, Israeli tanks pulled away from residential neighborhoods of all three areas, Palestinian security officials said. They said tanks remained in positions along the Israeli border and around nearby Jewish settlements.
Israeli military sources said troops would remain in Gaza Strip and continue to act against rocket attacks.
The Israeli forces have left behind widespread destruction, damaged houses and infrastructure.
Shortly before the pullback, a 65-year-old Palestinian woman was shot in the head and killed by Israeli tank fire while eating a traditional dinner to break the fasting of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan in her home, Palestinian hospital officials said.
© 2004 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
