Monday, September 12 2005 11:31 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Neve Dekalim (Gaza Strip): The Palestinian flag was raised across Gaza Strip settlements before dawn today (Sept 12, 2005) as jubilant security forces took control of the territory from Israeli troops in an historic end to four decades of occupation.

Flares fired by drones lit up the night sky and Palestinians shot into the air in celebration as convoys of Israeli troops in tanks headed across the border, marking the imminent end of a military presence embroiled in conflict and bloodshed.

Thousands of Palestinian security forces began moving into the settlements from around 1:00 am (0330 IST), taking control of the whole of the southern Gush Katif settlement bloc within hour.

They could be seen dancing jigs of delight within the settlements, which had been strictly off limits to Palestinians for 38 years.

"I'm so happy that I can't find the words to describe how I feel. I just hope the West Bank will follow," said Captain Abu Mohammed as he sung along to patriotic songs with fellow members of the national security forces.

Palestinian leader Mahmud Abbas called it a 'day of joy' but warned that Israel must ensure free movement in and out of Gaza if the territory was not to be turned into a 'giant prison'.

Israel's troop withdrawal follows the clearance of all settlers from Gaza three weeks ago, a political gamble by rightwing Prime Minister Ariel Sharon that marked the first time Israel has removed Jews from occupied Palestinian land.