Jerusalem, December 18, 2003 … The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) issued a statement in response to today's call by Prime Minister Ariel Sharon in a major address for Israel to take unilateral steps to establish a border and relocate Jewish settlements if the Palestinians do not make major progress toward peace in the next few months.

Barbara B. Balser, ADL National Chair and Abraham H. Foxman, ADL National Director, who attended the Prime Minister's speech at the national security conference in Herzliya, issued the following statement:

Israel continues to be primarily concerned about the safety and security of its citizens while waiting for a peace partner.  Israel is not willing to wait indefinitely.  If the Palestinians fail to eliminate terror organizations and move to further the road map, Israel reserves the right to act unilaterally in consultation with the United States.
 
The Prime Minister struck the right balance: An eagerness to reach agreement with Palestinians if they are really interested in peace which would result in two states living side by side; but also a determination not to the have Israeli security and interest held hostage to continued Palestinian rejectionism.  At the same time the Prime Minister made clear that Israel will consult with the United States on any future steps.
 
Mr. Sharon's address was a significant contribution to Israel's security and potentially to peace, if there is a Palestinian partner.

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.