Is Anti-Zionism antisemitism?



Anti-Zionism is the opposition to Zionism (Jewish self-determination) and the existence of the Jewish state.  Denying Jewish self-determination is antisemitism.


Anti-Zionism is antisemitism according to the EUMC Working Definition of Antisemitism, also used by the UK government.  (bolding mine):
Examples of the ways in which antisemitism manifests itself with regard to the State of Israel taking into account the overall context could include:
  • Denying the Jewish people their right to self-determination, e.g., by claiming that the existence of a State of Israel is a racist endeavor.
  • Applying double standards by requiring of it a behavior not expected or demanded of any other democratic nation.
  • Using the symbols and images associated with classic antisemitism (e.g., claims of Jews killing Jesus or blood libel) to characterize Israel or Israelis.
  • Drawing comparisons of contemporary Israeli policy to that of the Nazis.
  • Holding Jews collectively responsible for actions of the state of Israel.
However, criticism of Israel similar to that leveled against any other country cannot be regarded as antisemitic.



Anti-Zionism is antisemitism according to US State Department Definition of Antisemitism (bolding mine):

EXAMPLES of the ways in which anti-Semitism manifests itself with regard to the state of Israel, taking into account the overall context could include:

DEMONIZE ISRAEL:
  • Using the symbols and images associated with classic anti-Semitism to characterize Israel or Israelis
  • Drawing comparisons of contemporary Israeli policy to that of the Nazis
  • Blaming Israel for all inter-religious or political tensions
DOUBLE STANDARD FOR ISRAEL:
  • Applying double standards by requiring of it a behavior not expected or demanded of any other democratic nation
  • Multilateral organizations focusing on Israel only for peace or human rights investigations
DELEGITIMIZE ISRAEL:
  • Denying the Jewish people their right to self-determination, and denying Israel the right to exist
However, criticism of Israel similar to that leveled against any other country cannot be regarded as anti-Semitic.

FAQ

Q: But I'm not an antisemite!

A: If you deny Jewish people the right to self determination and deny Israel the right to exist, you are an antisemite.

Q: But Israel is a racist, apartheid state supporting genocide and murder of innocent Palestinians!

A: See above.


Q: BDS is not antisemitism!

A: BDS says Jews in Israel are colonialist invaders.  BDS denies Jews the right to self-determination. BDS is antisemitic.

Q: Supporting Palestinians is not antisemitism!

A: Supporting a Palestinian state alongside a Jewish state is Zionism.  Supporting a Palestinian state instead of a Jewish state is anti-Zionism and is antisemitism.

Q:  Criticizing Israel is not antisemitism!

A:  Criticizing Israel is not anti-Zionism.  If you support Israel's right to exist but are critical of Israeli policies, you are a Zionist.  If you don't support Israel's right to exist, you are an anti-Zionist and an antisemite

3 comments :

  1. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Hi Ora,

    I'm a new blogger. I write about art, music, history and politics in French. But I share with you concerns about anti-semitism and love for Israel. I would like to be added to your blog list of friends and I would be honored to do likewise.

    Best regards

    ReplyDelete
  3. Anti-Zionism is that form of anti-semitism that promotes contempt or dehumanization of the jews as a people and the Israelites as a nation. Anti-semitism against the Jews as a national group.

    ReplyDelete