NO ROOM FOR BIBI NOW

So Bibi Netanyahu left. And it is rare, but there's actually a consensus between the Israeli right and left now: they both rejoice in the fact he resigned, even if for different reasons...

The right is happy because Bibi's departure from the Ministry of Finance signals his formal split with Sharon and all those who stand behind the Gaza withdrawal. The left is celebrating because they see Bibi's resignation as long overdue - as a leading opponent of the Gaza withdrawal, they claim Bibi should not be part of the government in any capacity.

The truth is, Bibi's timing is off. He's late - before the plan's final approval, his resignation would have had a greater impact. Now, critics and observers in general are convinced his exit will not disrupt the disengagement process. Their assessment seems to be correct.

In any case, and even with all the controversy surrounding the Gaza pullout, most polls place Israeli support for the plan above 50%, somewhat around 60% (obviously, some higher, some lower). That alone should be sufficient indication that there is no room for Bibi now in the current political situation (which, let's face it, revolves around the pullout).

To be fair, he seems to have done (or more to the point, led) a reasonable job with the economy (although critics contend he seriously cut social welfare programs, crediting him with the responsibility for the rise in the percentage of Israelis living below the poverty line). Still, Bibi is old school anti-Palestinian. There is no way around that. He has carved a place for himself in Israeli politics based on his extreme right-wing views, and if that is what placed him in power before, that might well be what keeps him away from it now.

Let us hope I am not speaking too soon.