Conflating anti-Zionism with antisemitism is a pernicious lie and must be rejected

Antisemitism is an ancient hatred of Jews and Jewish people. It has found its most enthusiastic proponents in Europe as well as its most horrific manifestations during the Inquisition, the periodic pogroms, and the Holocaust.

Zionism is a political ideology. Romantic notions of Zionism that it was about establishing a homeland for the Jewish people have been shattered by the terror, bloodshed, and mass displacement of the Nakba, and the 76 years of brutal occupation and the grim reality of apartheid.

Calling out the terrorism of Zionists, whether that be by Prime Minister Netanyahu, the savage Israeli offensive forces, or the murderous illegal Israeli settlers and their enablers, does not make you antisemitic. In fact, many Jews and Jewish groups are those doing the calling out.

Hash Tayeh is one of the more prominent pro-Palestine voices. He has been subjected to a vicious smear campaign over many months and has endured threats to his family and livelihood. Hash is not antisemitic and so the Zionist cheer squad are manufacturing a libelous narrative that his strident criticism of Israel and Zionism are attempts to stir up hatred against Jews.

Rather than spreading these lies, those behind the smear campaign need to ask themselves what does their support for Israel's genocidal campaign against Gaza say about them. Hash is a fearless advocate for justice for the Palestinians and will not be cowed. He has the support of all those that value life, human dignity, and liberation for the Palestinian people — Jews, Muslims, Christians, and those of no faith.

The ICV stands with Hash Tayeh, Palestinian leader Nasser Mashni, writer Randa Abdel-Fattah, Senator Fatima Payman, journalist Mary Kostakidis, and all those that have been subjected to these hateful lies. From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free!