Reverend Jesse Jackson, a staunch supporter of the Palestinian cause, phoned Israeli Ambassador to the U.S. Danny Ayalon on Thursday asking him to pass on his congratulations to Prime Minister Ariel Sharon for the successful evacuation of Gaza and the northern West Bank.
Jackson, an African-American leader and former candidate for president of the United States, said that following Israel’s disengagement, “the moral burden now substantially shifts to the Palestinians.”
"Sharon made a bold and painful step toward a long-term solution. He deserves a partnership that is just as bold and committed," he said.
Jackson accepted Ayalon’s invitation to visit Israel.
Meanwhile, the European Union has issued a statement praising Sharon and the Israeli government for the pullout.
The organization commended the evacuating forces for their conduct throughout the operation and applauded the Palestinian Authority for maintaining the peace.