Jerusalem, May 24, 2004 ... The Anti-Defamation League was shocked and outraged at the unfortunate remarks made by the Chief Rabbi of Kiryat Arba, Dov Lior, concerning innocent non-Jews who are hurt in fighting between Israeli soldiers and Palestinians.  Rabbi Lior stated that "in the course of battle the IDF (Israel Defense Forces) is allowed to hurt an ostensibly innocent civilian population."   He also maintains that "There is no reason to feel guilty because of the morality of infidels."

In a letter to Rabbi Lior, ADL's Israel Office wrote:

"The Anti-Defamation League mourns along with the majority of Israelis the injury and loss of any and all innocent civilians during the course of battle, regardless of national identity or religion.   While it is true that Palestinian terrorists abuse their own civilian population by fighting from within civilian structures in an entirely illegal and immoral manner, the fact is the IDF takes great pains to minimize civilian loss of life —often at its own peril and many times with tragic results.  This is a military and moral doctrine that should make all Jews proud and earn the respect of all individuals and nations who value life. 

"As a religious leader whose statements are carried far beyond the confines of Kiryat Arba, we urge you consider the impact your words have both at home and abroad."