Its a bit more complicated than that. Israel can no longer afford to protect these unauthorized settlements from attacks. Strategically, these settlements are very badly situated and quite vulnerable. It isn't any way to run a country. And, actually, Israel will be better able to defend its territory with a clearly defined border and uniformly Palestinian Gaza. Military action in response Palestinian violence from Gaza will be more decisive and compelling if the Israelis don't have to thread between a bunch of small indefensible settlements. Borders will be better regulated and defended. Its a good move for Israel and I applaud Mr. Sharon for doing it.