There is a wide range of views on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and the vigorous debate and activism on this complex situation is an important component of public discourse and the free exchange of ideas. While criticism of Israeli policies and actions is part of that discourse, certain forms of anti-Israel rhetoric and activism delegitimize Israel and its existence, and are antisemitic when they vilify and negate Zionism – the movement for Jewish self-determination and statehood – or utilize anti-Jewish tropes or hold all Jews responsible for Israel’s actions.
ADL has seen firsthand how extreme and demonizing rhetoric and ugly expressions of anti-Zionism can be the driving force behind antisemitic discrimination against Jews in different environments, including on campus and in the workplace. Such rhetoric has even served to embolden acts of anti-Jewish violence in the U.S. and around the world. ADL believes that one can advocate for the Palestinian people and their right to self-determination while also respecting the Jewish right to self-determination.
ADL provides analysis on trends and developments within anti-Israel and anti-Zionist movements and serves as a go-to resource for stakeholders confronting these actions. We educate about how some rhetoric and activity in these spaces can be antisemitic, and/or support violence against Israel and Israelis. And we highlight how some anti-Israel campaigns, such as those orchestrated by proponents of BDS (boycott, divestment, sanctions) provide simplistic, unfair and unconstructive answers to the complex Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and do not advocate for the advancement of Israeli-Palestinian dialogue, mutual understanding and peace.