FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Bar-Ilan University Condemns Publication of Book on Blood Libels

University expects Prof. Ariel Toaff to take immediate measures to repair
the damage caused by the publication of his book

Following a preliminary investigation into the circumstances surrounding the
publication of Prof. Ariel Toaff's book in Italy, Bar-Ilan University is
expressing great anger and extreme displeasure at Prof. Ariel Toaff, for his
lack of sensitivity in publishing his book about blood libels in Italy. His
choice of a private publishing firm in Italy, the book's provocative title
and the interpretations given by the media to its contents, have offended
the sensitivities of Jews around the world and harmed the delicate fabric of
relations between Jews and Christians.

Bar-Ilan University strongly condemns and repudiates what is seemingly
implied by Toaff's book and by reports in the media concerning its contents,
as if there is a basis for the blood libels that led to the murder of
millions of innocent Jews.

Bar-Ilan University's executive leadership and academic faculty have
consistently condemned any attempt to justify the terrible blood libels
against the Jews. Prof. Toaff should have demonstrated greater sensitivity
and caution in his handling of the book and its publication, in a manner
that would have prevented the distorted and offensive reports and
interpretations.

At Bar-Ilan University it is expected that now, after the extent of the
damage caused to the Jewish public has become apparent, Prof. Toaff will
take personal responsibility for his blunder and act to repair the damage
which he caused.

In addition, the University expects all those involved in the matter to work
to set the record straight and to remove the needless cloud that has formed
in the wake of the distorted accounts.

For further information, contact:
Shmuel Elgrably, Bar-Ilan University Spokesman
Tel: +972-505-401410