ISRAEL Army creates a 'remote control' border plan for the Gaza Strip

JERUSALEM (AP) -- The Israeli army envisions a "remote control" border with the Gaza Strip after a troop withdrawal, including unmanned patrol cars and computerized observation posts that would automatically spot and kill attackers, a military official said today.
The technology already exists, but the plan hasn't been approved yet, and fallback options are being considered, the official said on condition of anonymity.
Also today, Yasser Arafat was quoted as saying he "definitely" understands that Israel must retain its Jewish character -- a rare acknowledgment by the Palestinian leader. However, Arafat was evasive when asked by the Haaretz daily about the fate of more than 4 million Palestinian refugees and their descendants.
Right of return
In peace talks, the Palestinians have insisted that Israel recognize the refugees' "right of return." Israel refuses, saying a mass influx of Palestinians will undermine the Jewish character of the state. The dispute has contributed to the collapse of negotiations in the past.
In the interview with Haaretz, Arafat suggested that many refugees could settle in a future Palestinian state, but refused to say how many should be allowed into Israel.
The resumption of negotiations on a final peace deal appears remote, with Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon forging ahead with his plan of "unilateral disengagement" from the Palestinians.
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