New York, NY, October 8, 2001 … The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) expressed outrage that Syria, a nation long identified by the U.S. State Department as a sponsor of terrorism, has been elected to the United Nations Security Council. In today's vote, 160 nations out of 177 approved Syria's candidacy for a two-year term.

Abraham H. Foxman, ADL National Director, issued the following statement:

It is both ironic and sad that as the world unites to battle terrorism, the United Nations is publicly honoring Syria, a longstanding state sponsor of terrorism, with a coveted position on the Security Council. Syria continues to harbor terrorists and supports anti-Israel and anti-American terrorist organizations operating within Lebanon and the Palestinian Authority. The United States has repeatedly designated Syria as a state sponsor of terrorism.

Secretary General Kofi Annan has declared that the United Nations should lead the campaign against terrorism. With Syria now sitting on its highest body, the U.N.'s commitment to fighting terrorism must be questioned.

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.