This is the first time that an incumbent prime minister is declaring his intention of dismantling dozens of settlements, and nothing is happening. No demonstrations and protests, no rebellion within the party, and no media uproar.

Even if he does recover, he will have a very hard time convincing the public of his ability to serve four more years, after undergoing two strokes in two and a half weeks. One can cautiously say that it appears that the era in which Sharon stood at Israel's helm came to a tragic end on Wednesday.

The 'day after' begins today, and the peace process between Israel and the Palestinians goes into a holding pattern, while each side becomes occupied with its own election campaigns.

The public will certainly wonder whether Sharon will be able to maintain his abilities.

One can cautiously say that it appears that the era in which Sharon stood at Israel's helm came to a tragic end on Wednesday.

Pressure will start coming again from the industry when it becomes clear that it could cut their regulatory compliance costs by having to deal with fewer regulators.