Barbara B. Balser, ADL National Chair and Abraham H. Foxman, ADL National Director, issued the following statement:

While the European Union's strong affirmation of EU - Israel ties and condemnation of Palestinian terrorism are encouraging, we are greatly concerned by the Declaration's expression of concern about Israel's security fence. The building of a security fence does nothing to undermine or prejudge future negotiations with the Palestinians. Israeli leaders have affirmed that the fence is a temporary security measure, and is being constructed in a manner that will be most effective as a means of securing Israelis, and in preventing suicide bombers from reaching Israeli civilians. It is not an effort by Israel to draw up permanent borders.



Israel has always sought true peace and reconciliation with the Palestinians. Unfortunately, suicide bombs and terrorism have forced Israel to build this fence. Once this campaign of terrorism ends and progress is made on negotiated reconciliation, the need for the security barrier with be diminished and it will likely be dismantled. As the EU seeks to become more engaged in the Israeli-Palestinian peace process, such a one-sided approach to this complex security issue undermines the credibility of the EU's involvement.

ADL has communicated its concerns to Franco Frattini, the Foreign Minister of Italy, who chaired the EU – Israel Council meeting. The League also expressed concern this week to the Vatican regarding Pope John Paul II's recent statements condemning Israel's security fence as an obstacle to peace.



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.