New York, NY, June 8, 2004 … Citing the nearly four years of unabated Palestinian terrorism, the lack of action to impede terrorism by the Palestinian Authority and the need for Israel to protect its citizens, the Anti-Defamation League's National Executive Committee passed a resolution supporting Prime Minister Sharon's "bold initiatives such as the disengagement plan which are consistent with Israel's strategic interests despite the risk that a unilateral step in the face of this terrorist campaign could give Palestinians and others the impression that terror pays."
 

The following is the full text of the resolution adopted on June 4, 2004:

WHEREAS, for almost four years, the State of Israel has been besieged by a campaign of Palestinian terrorism;

WHEREAS, the Palestinian Authority leadership has not taken steps to stop or impede Palestinian terrorism or dismantle the terrorist infrastructure;

WHEREAS, to protect its population from the unceasing and unchecked Palestinian terrorism, Israel has been forced to undertake a number of defensive measures, including military action, and the building of a security barrier; 

WHEREAS, Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon has also sought creative proposals consistent with long-term strategic interests to promote Israel's security and improve the situation on the ground in the territories.  His "disengagement plan" is one such proposal, and calls for a unilateral disengagement from the Gaza Strip and sections of the West Bank.  This initiative, which has the support of the Bush Administration and the Quartet, will entail the dismantlement of Israeli settlements in those areas.  

WHEREAS, the Israeli government has made it clear that it remains committed to resuming negotiations so long as there is a viable Palestinian partner who does not engage in terrorism and violence;  Therefore, let it be

RESOLVED, that the Anti-Defamation League supports bold initiatives such as the disengagement plan which are consistent with Israel's strategic interests despite the risk that a unilateral step in the face of this terrorist campaign could give Palestinians and others the impression that terror pays.

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.