New York, N.Y., June 21, 2001 … The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) today welcomed the indictments of 14 individuals for the 1996 terrorist bombing of the Khobar Towers apartment building in Saudi Arabia. Significantly, the indictment condemns parts of the Iranian government, which, according to Attorney General John Ashcroft "inspired, supported and supervised" the Saudi Hezbollah members who perpetrated the attack, killing 19 American servicemen.

Abraham H. Foxman, ADL National Director, issued the following statement:

We welcome the 14 indictments of those who are believed to have perpetrated the heinous bombing of the Khobar Towers complex in 1996. The investigation and indictment demonstrates the commitment of the United States government to hold those responsible for terrorist attacks against Americans and American targets accountable.

The specific condemnation of elements of the Iranian government for inspiring, supporting and supervising the attack is but another confirmation of Iran's ongoing support of terrorism. Iran's proven involvement in the Khobar Towers attack demonstrates the importance of continued U.S. vigilance in encouraging international efforts to counter Iran, including through the extension of the Iran-Libya Sanctions Act.

The ADL Leon and Marilyn Klinghoffer Memorial Foundation combats terrorism through educational, political and legal means, was founded in 1986.

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.