New York, NY, June 30, 2014 … The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) today expressed deep sorrow over the news that the bodies of the three abducted Israeli teens have been found in the outskirts of Hebron. Senior government officials said members of the Israel Defense Forces have found the bodies of kidnapped teenagers Naftali Fraenkel, Gilad Shaar and Eyal Yifrach buried under rocks in an open field outside of Hebron.

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

We are shocked and deeply saddened to learn that our worst fears have been realized.

In the 18 days since these boys were abducted, Israel and its supporters around the world came together to pray for their safe return.  Unfortunately, Eyal, Gilad and Naftali will not be returning home to their families or to their studies.

We extend our sincerest condolences to the Yifrach, Shaar and Fraenkel families.

We take this opportunity to affirm our solidarity with the State of Israel at this difficult time and to condemn all those who engage in and support terrorism.  We reiterate our support for Israel’s right to self-defense.

 

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.  Follow us on Twitter: @ADL_NY