Where criticizing Israel ends and hating Jews begins

The article discusses the increasing trend of anti-Israel rhetoric crossing into antisemitism in American politics, particularly among extremist factions in both Democratic and Republican parties. It highlights instances where criticism of Israel's policies morphs into calls for the imprisonment or deportation of "Zionists," or the denial of Israel's right to exist. The piece cites examples of candidates like Maureen Galindo and Alicia Lapp, who made explicitly antisemitic remarks while using "Zionist" as a pejorative for "Jew."

• The article emphasizes that legitimate criticism of a government's policies, as seen in Israel's own vibrant internal debates, differs fundamentally from holding the Jewish people accountable for Israel's actions or denying the country's right to exist.
• It notes that the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism, adopted by 47 countries, clarifies that "criticism of Israel similar to that leveled against any other country cannot be regarded as antisemitic."
• The article also points out a double standard applied to Israel, where its actions receive disproportionate outrage compared to other global conflicts and human rights abuses.
• Despite the rise of extremist voices, there is pushback from within both parties, with figures like Rep. Ritchie Torres and Gov. Josh Shapiro condemning antisemitism.