"This is a time for wisdom," Wolfensohn said, stressing that there was no need to "start with a draconian set of rules."
By NATHAN GUTTMANjames wolfensohn 88(photo credit: )
James Wolfensohn, Quartet special envoy for Gaza disengagement, and US General Keith Dayton warned Congress Wednesday against passing tough legislation regarding the Palestinian Authority in the wake of the Hamas victory in January's PA election. Wolfensohn also confirmed reports he might resign his post because of "a lack of backing from the Quartet."
Speaking to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Wolfensohn called on lawmakers "not to rush" to pass legislation concerning Hamas or future relations with the PA.
"This is a time for wisdom," Wolfensohn said, stressing that there was no need to "start with a draconian set of rules." According to the envoy, strict legislation could generate chaos in the Palestinian territories and limit the maneuvering room of the international community in dealing with moderate Palestinians.
Dayton, the US military envoy in charge of reforming the PA security forces, said the more restrictive the legislation passed, the more difficult it would be for him to do his job.
