New York, NY, April 2, 2008 … The Anti-Defamation League (ADL hailed passage by the House of Representatives of  HR 185, which calls for the United States to ensure that Jewish refugees from Arab lands are recognized and included in negotiations and agreements on issues related to Middle East refugees. 

"In passing this resolution, the House has recognized that any just discussion and resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict must also address the narrative and outstanding claims of the hundreds of thousands of Jews who were forced to flee Arab lands in the years surrounding the establishment of the State of Israel," said Abraham H. Foxman, ADL National Director. "The story of these refugees who were forced to leave behind centuries-old communities had been ignored for too long."

The ADL expressed appreciation to Rep. Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL); Rep. Michael Ferguson (R-NJ); and Rep. Joseph Crowley (D-NY) for sponsoring and shepherding HR 185 through the House. 

The League has joined in advocacy efforts on behalf of Jewish refugees from Arab lands with Justice for Jews from Arab Countries.

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.