New York, NY, April 5, 2007 … On the heels of his recent visit to Israel and the region, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon engaged in a frank discussion with the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) on the situation in the Middle East, his view of Israel and its treatment at the U.N., and his priorities for his term as Secretary-General.

Following today's meeting in the Secretary-General's office, Abraham H. Foxman, ADL National Director issued the following statement:

The Secretary-General demonstrated to us his grasp of Israel's security concerns, having seen the country and its borders close up.  Taking the time early on in his tenure for firsthand exploration of the issues surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian/Arab conflict was an important decision.  He now better understands the threats Israel faces from its southern and northern borders and how Israeli society copes with them.

In discussing Israel's place at the U.N. and its treatment by the General Assembly and other U.N. bodies, especially the U.N. Human Rights Council, Mr. Ban acknowledged that Israel has been treated poorly at the U.N. and recognizes that, while some progress is being made, the situation continues.  Mr. Ban noted that he has two priorities for his term as Secretary-General: addressing the issues facing African nations, especially the humanitarian crisis in Darfur; and working toward solutions for the complex situation in the Middle East region.

Mr. Ban emphasized his concern for the prompt return of the captured Israeli soldiers Gilad Shalit, being held by Hamas, and Ehud Goldwasser and Eldad Regev, who were kidnapped in July 2006 by the terrorist group Hezbollah.

Joining Mr. Foxman was Michael Salberg, ADL Director of International Affairs.

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.