ADL Calls on European Leaders to Be Alert to Anti-Semitism Stemming from War in Iraq
New York, N.Y., March 25, 2003 ... The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) today cautioned the governments of Belgium, France and Germany to be alert to a developing environment in their countries in which attacks on Jews or Jewish institutions are seen as acceptable means of expressing opposition to the war in Iraq. The League also called on leaders of those countries to take a strong stand against anti-Semitic actions.
In a letter to the Belgian, French and German Interior Ministers, Abraham H. Foxman, ADL National Director, said:
We are concerned that tensions related to the war with Iraq are once again creating an environment whereby some are emboldened to attack Jews and Jewish community institutions.
Just this week, Jewish teens were chased and attacked by individuals who were participating in an anti-war demonstration in Paris. In Berlin, a Jewish student was attacked on a busy street.
It is essential that your government speak out strongly against such acts of overt hate and make it clear that these acts are not acceptable expressions of political differences and will not be tolerated. We urge you to provide enhanced security for the Jewish community and its institutions, and to seek out those who perpetrate these hate crimes and prosecute them to the full extent of the law.
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.
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