New York, NY, April 1, 2002 ... The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) today praised the Bush Administration for its continued strong stance against Palestinian violence and its unwavering support of the Israeli government's efforts to combat terrorism.

In a statement commending President George W. Bush and Secretary of State Colin Powell, the League praised the administration's strong words and for recognizing that the State of Israel is engaged in a war "against those who seek its demise through terrorism and violence."

Abraham H. Foxman, ADL National Director, issued the following statement, which also was conveyed in letters to President Bush and Secretary of State Powell:

We appreciate your continued strong stance and statements condemning the horrifying Palestinian campaign of terror, and Chairman Yasir Arafat's refusal to stop the daily carnage of innocent Israelis.

The State of Israel is imperiled by a Palestinian leadership that has turned its back on peace and reconciliation in favor of terrorism, war and deluded "martyrdom." Each day, innocent Israelis are brutally murdered while eating in cafes, going to the supermarket, even attending a Passover Seder.

The assumption of the past decade that the Palestinians were ultimately committed to a negotiated settlement with Israel has been proven tragically misguided. Israel, who has extended its hand again and again in peace, has no choice but to take whatever actions it deems necessary to protect its population and destroy the Palestinian terrorist infrastructure.

We have great confidence that the United States will continue to stand alongside Israel as it battles this war against those who seek its demise through terrorism and violence.

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.