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Conference of Presidents Welcomes "Strong Condemnation" of Palestinian Authority Incitement by Administration
Reports of Denial of Visas to Israeli Scientists Repudiated
New York, April 9, 2010 … Alan Solow, Chairman, and Malcolm Hoenlein, Executive Vice Chairman, of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations said that the continuing acts of deliberate incitement by Palestinian Authority leaders utilizing institutions of government, media, education, and mosques is unacceptable and a true obstacle to peace. In recent weeks, there have been blatant acts, including the reported dedication by PA officials of a street in honor of the terrorist bomb maker Yehiya Ayash and a square, as well as other facilities, in memory of the perpetrator of the coastal road attack that took 39 lives including 13 Israeli children in 1979. This is in addition to a variety of statements including calls for a ‘Day of Rage’ over the rededication of a historic synagogue, calls for boycotts and denials of Israel’s historic presence and connection to both the city of Jerusalem and the land of Israel.
“We appreciate the statement of Assistant Secretary of State for Public Affairs P.J. Crowley denouncing these acts as ‘undermining the trust and confidence needed for substantive and productive Israeli-Palestinian negotiations.’ Mr. Crowley added that ‘we also strongly condemn the glorification of terrorists. Honoring terrorists who have murdered innocent civilians either by official statements or by the dedication of public places hurts peace efforts and must end. We will continue to hold Palestinian leaders accountable for incitement.’”
The Jewish leaders added, “For too long these escalating acts of incitement, often accompanied by acts of violence, have not been addressed by the international community. The indoctrination of youth with such vile hatred starting with television programs aimed at the youngest children, to the exalted status given to those who carry out murderous attacks against innocent civilians must not be tolerated or excused. Decisive action to bring it to an end is essential. What confidence can the people of Israel have in negotiations with a partner whose leadership and institutions engage in such provocative and destructive acts?”
Mr. Solow and Mr. Hoenlein added that another story that is current, reporting the denial of visas to Israeli nuclear scientists, is without foundation. “We have received clear denials by both U.S. and Israeli officials that there has been a change in policy and that long-standing practices continue to apply. The report that has gained wide Internet distribution was reported in a major Israeli newspaper. We are pleased that the story has been quickly put to rest,” they said.
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