New York, NY, December 8, 2006 … The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) today commended the U.S. House of Representatives for overwhelmingly passing the Palestinian Anti-Terrorism Act (S.2370), which restricts aid to the Palestinian Authority until the Hamas-controlled government meets certain key criteria.  The measure, previously approved by the Senate, now goes to the president for his signature.

“We commend Congress for reaffirming America’s longstanding policy to isolate and ban American support for any terrorist entity, regardless of its political or humanitarian activities,” said Abraham H. Foxman, ADL National Director.  “This measure reaffirms the stance of the U.S. and many in the international community that the Palestinian government must honor past agreements, recognize Israel and crack down on terror.  This legislation advances the broader U.S. objective to ban support for a Hamas-led Palestinian Authority while allowing humanitarian assistance to reach the Palestinian people.”

Since assuming control of the Palestinian government, Hamas has refused to recognize Israel’s right to exist, failed to recognize prior agreements with Israel, and has done nothing to stop the barrage of rocket fire from Gaza into Israel.

“Hamas must make a choice to lead the Palestinian people toward a negotiated peace with its neighbor if it hopes to have normative relations with the U.S.,” said Mr. Foxman.  “As the President has said time and again, democratically elected leaders cannot have one foot in the camp of democracy and one foot in the camp of terror.”

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.