NEW YORK / BERLIN – The World Jewish Congress (WJC) welcomes the decision of the Federal Government of Germany to ban the Iranian-sponsored Hezbollah terrorist militia.
In addition, the World Jewish Congress calls on all other countries and the United Nations to similarly ban Hezbollah.
World Jewish Congress President Ronald S. Lauder said: “We are pleased that the German Federal Government wants to ban Hezbollah in its entirety, because it is high time that this long overdue and obviously necessary step was taken.
“Hezbollah is one of the worst terrorist organizations in the world. Not only does it use Germany for refuge and fund-raising, but it also appears in public, including at demonstrations in Berlin.
“As an extension of the Iranian regime, Hezbollah poses an immediate threat to Jews in Germany as well as to security in general. One cannot tolerate the fact that more than 1,000 fanatical officials conduct their business unhindered, incite, threaten, and organize criminal activities.
“We trust that once the ban is in place, the Federal Government of Germany will immediately close down the infrastructure of Hezbollah in Germany and prosecute its leaders. The ban must not be the end of the process but must mark the beginning of a consistent anti-terrorism policy.
“The EU and all member countries should also join the ban. The artificial distinction between Hezbollah's political and military wings ignores a dangerous reality.”