Increased concern over rocket attack on Sharon's Farm

In the wake of the Gaza withdrawal, concern is increasing that more of southern Israel will fall within range of Palestinian rockets, including Prime Minister Sharon's farm east of Sderot. Defensive preparations against Kassam rockets were recently made at Sharon's home by the Shin Bet security service, which is responsible for protecting Israel's leaders. Defense officials fear that Israel's withdrawal from Gaza will allow Hamas to bring its rocket launchers right up to the security fence to enable them to reach more distant targets within Israel.