New York, NY, January 26, 2006 … The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) said the victory of Hamas, the terrorist organization that is dedicated to the destruction of Israel, over Fatah is "a sad day for democracy," and "puts peace in peril."
 
Abraham H. Foxman, ADL National Director, issued the following statement:

It is a sad day for democracy when a majority of Palestinians vote for the party that employs and glorifies terrorism to achieve its aim to destroy Israel. The empowerment of Hamas puts peace in peril and dashes hopes for a viable Palestinian state living in peace and security with Israel. 

History has shown time and again that extremist groups come to power by promising a better life for the people, but once governing, implement their extremist policies. As long as Hamas remains an armed terrorist group it cannot be a partner for peace or accepted as a legitimate government by the international community of nations.

The Anti-Defamation League, founded in 1913, is the world's leading organization fighting anti-Semitism through programs and services that counteract hatred, prejudice and bigotry.