New York, NY, August 25, 2000 … The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) today welcomed the State Department’s request to withdraw the Holy Land Foundation from the roster of charities and relief groups supported by the Agency for International Development.

"We welcome the State Department’s commitment to stop the flow of funds from the United States to international terrorist groups," said Abraham H. Foxman, ADL National Director. "We have always had concerns about fungible money going to terrorist groups. Providing monthly stipends to the families of suicide bombers or other terrorists is appalling and unacceptable. The United States should not put itself in a position to support or endorse such activity, which provides an incentive and encouragement for future terrorist acts. That’s why this State Department action is so important."

Registration with the U.S. Agency for International Development allows groups to apply for federal grants and accords a measure of legitimacy. The Holy Land Foundation currently does not receive federal funds. In March 1998, ADL urged the Justice Department to investigate allegations that the Richardson, Texas-based foundation had violated a 1996 law that made it illegal to raise funds or accept contributions on behalf of terrorist organizations. Holy Land Foundation has provided support to families of suicide bombers and others with links to Hamas, which continues to sponsor international acts of terrorism and is designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organization by the State Department.

ADL has closely tracked the threat of international terrorism. The ADL Klinghoffer Foundation combats terrorism through educational, political and legal means. In addition, the Foundation recognizes exemplary action against terrorism with the Leon and Marilyn Klinghoffer Foundation Memorial Award.

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.