Israel in Rafah 'retreat'

Israeli forces began pulling out of the Rafah refugee camp today after a three-day operation that left 39 Palestinians dead.

However, Palestinian officials said Israeli snipers continued to occupy buildings while attack helicopters flew overhead.

Doctors said that relief convoys could not yet enter the camp. Israeli military sources confirmed that soldiers were "redeploying" .

However, international criticism may have had an effect on premier Ariel Sharon, especially pointed US displeasure.

Israel raided the refugee camp after Palestinian militants killed 13 soldiers in Gaza.