New York, NY, June 21, 2006 … The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) today labeled comments by Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir that he would not allow United Nations Peacekeepers into Darfur, and accusing Jews of being behind the plan, as "a feeble attempt to divert attention from the ongoing genocide."

In his response to journalists who pressed al-Bashir on his objection to UN troops in Darfur, he said:  "It is clear that there is a purpose behind the heavy propaganda and media campaigns . . . If we return to the last demonstrations in the United States, and the groups that organized the demonstrations, we find that they are all Jewish organizations."

"In pointing the finger at Jewish involvement in the campaign to draw attention to genocide in Darfur, President al-Bashir is playing an old game. Those who engage in or tolerate genocide always try to divert attention from their actions. Blaming Jews is a favorite choice," said Abraham H. Foxman, ADL National Director. "We in the Jewish community take pride in our leadership role in opposing this genocide and calling for international intervention. The Sudanese leader's ranting is a badge of honor for the Jewish community."

Al-Bashir was referring to the Save Darfur Rally in Washington, D.C. and other sites around the U.S. earlier this year.  The Sudanese President also said that he would lead a resistance to a UN peacekeeping role in Darfur and accused the UN of wanting "to colonize Africa, starting with the first sub-Saharan country to gain its independence."

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.