Important: Criticism of Israeli government policies is not inherently antisemitic. However, when criticism of Israel crosses into hatred of Jewish people, denies Jewish history, or holds Jews to different standards than others, it becomes antisemitism.
✓ NOT Antisemitism
- Criticizing specific Israeli government policies or actions
- Advocating for Palestinian rights and self-determination
- Raising awareness about humanitarian conditions in Gaza or the West Bank
- Supporting non-violent solutions and peace initiatives
- Questioning military tactics or proportionality
- Discussing international law and human rights concerns
- Calling for accountability for all parties in the conflict
- Supporting boycotts that do not solely target Jews
- Criticizing settlement policies
✗ IS Antisemitism
- Denying the Jewish people's right to self-determination
- Holding Jews collectively responsible for Israel's actions
- Using Holocaust imagery to describe Israeli actions
- Promoting conspiracy theories about Jewish/Zionist world control
- Justifying violence against Jewish civilians anywhere
- Denying Jewish historical connection to the land
- Applying double standards by requiring behavior not expected of other nations
- Using classic antisemitic imagery (blood libel, protocols, etc.)
- Targeting Jewish institutions unrelated to Israel
🔑 The 3D Test
A helpful framework for identifying when criticism crosses into antisemitism:
• Delegitimization: Denying Israel's right to exist or Jewish peoplehood
• Demonization: Using Nazi comparisons or blood libel imagery
• Double Standards: Holding Israel to standards not applied to other countries
💡 Remember
Context matters: The same statement might be legitimate criticism in an academic debate but antisemitic when spray-painted on a synagogue. Consider the speaker, audience, and intent.
Impact matters: Even unintentional antisemitism can cause real harm. Listen when Jewish communities express concerns.