Only a small proportion of Jews are opposed to Israel’s existence but anti-Zionist Jews have a high profile in the broader anti-Zionist movement. Typically they are activist-academics at elite universities, some are in the media while others work for non-governmental organisations. Among them are Israelis as well as diaspora Jews.
The appeal of Jewish anti-Zionists to the broader movement against Israel is clear. They give its arguments credibility and allow it to deflect charges of anti-Semitism.
For anti-Zionist Jews themselves it allows them to distance themselves from the mainstream Jewish community. It lets them claim that they are not “white” or privileged in the Jews are often portrayed by progressives. That helps explain why anti-Zionist Jews often have such a visceral urge to denounce Israel and distance themselves from mainstream Jewry.
Key video and articles:
Video of talk on Jewish anti-Zionism
Zack Polanski's shameful turn on Israel
