New York, NY, July 28, 2006 … The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) commended President George W. Bush and British Prime Minister Tony Blair for their "wise and practical approach" to resolving the conflict in the Middle East, as articulated in today's joint White House appearance. The two leaders called for the establishment of a "lasting peace" within a framework that allows for the implementation of U.N. Resolution 1559, which mandates the permanent disbanding of Hezbollah militias in south Lebanon.

"We share their desire to stop the violence and suffering as soon as possible, but only in a way to establish a 'lasting peace,' in the words of the President, and to establish a 'framework,' in the words of the Prime Minister, to implement Resolution 1559," said Abraham H. Foxman, ADL National Director.  "The President and Prime Minister clearly recognize what the conflict is about – the takeover of southern Lebanon by a terrorist group committed to Israel's destruction and armed to the hilt by Iran and Syria.

"President Bush and Prime Minister Blair have presented a wise and practical approach to ensure that stability can be achieved and to ensure that war will not return to the Israel-Lebanon border."