This is a cross-post by Robbie Travers
I am inherently suspicious of anti-Zionism.
This is a seemingly odd sentiment to hold prima facie, but when a case is established for said scepticism, I feel it is both a logical and a sensible position to hold. Zionism has seemingly lost its meaning, being disfigured repetitively by its opponents as an extremist ideology of supremacy, and therefore it is essential we remain mindful of what the diverse Zionist movement’s uniting goal is. Zionism is the belief in the establishment and protection of a democratic state in the region of the Middle East that is a safe haven for the Jewish population to inhabit without mass societal or governmental persecution.
It is with a heavy heart that I regard my staunch ideological position as a Zionist to be a necessity. Jews of ethnic and religious backgrounds, in the 21st century, should have the ability to live in any state without facing horrific abuse and governmental persecution. Ideally, I would not have to promote the existence of a state that specifically promotes and protects the rights of the Jewish populace. All states should be able to ensure said protection of the rights of Jews and refrain from actively persecute the Jewish people. Yet, anti-Zionists and Zionists alike must face the tough reality that makes Zionism an essential part of my political beliefs: adherents of Judaism and ethnic Jews continue to face persecution across the Western world, and especially in European nations. Anti-Semitism is undeniably on the rise in the UK. This is obvious when the number of reported anti-Semitic incidents in the UK has increased by more than 50%.
I would argue that the promulgation of anti-Zionist views and the excusing of clear prejudice under the seemingly more palatable anti-Zionist agenda have helped feed this rise. Crime statistics indicate that 459 anti-Semitic incidents were recorded by the Metropolitan Police in London in 2014/15, up from 193 in 2013/14, that is an 137% increase. Anti-Semitism is on the rise outside London, and with Greater Manchester police reporting that anti-Semitic crimes have increased from 82 to 172, an increase of over 100%.
Do read the rest of Robbie’s post here.
