The Oldest Hatred... Post-October 7 - with Ritchie Torres, Michal Cotler Wunsh & Ethan Missner
Oct 25, 2023
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Topics include anti-Semitism, the distinction between anti-Zionism and anti-Semitism, the life and sacrifice of Israeli soldier Omar Balva, personal journey and advocacy for Israel, the growing power of the Democratic Socialists of America, the connection between anti-Semitism and anti-Zionism, and the documentation and spread of Hamas atrocities.
Anti-Zionism is the modern mainstream form of anti-Semitism targeted at delegitimizing Israel.
The explicit anti-Semitic attacks on Jews and Israel on October 7th exposed deep-rooted anti-Semitism.
Legitimate criticism of Israel becomes anti-Semitism when it denies Israel's right to exist and applies double standards.
Deep dives
Anti-Zionism as a form of modern anti-Semitism
The podcast episode discusses how anti-Zionism is the new modern mainstream form of anti-Semitism. It highlights how anti-Semitism has mutated and now targets the state of Israel, attempting to delegitimize its existence and its right to defend itself. The episode emphasizes the importance of recognizing this mutation of anti-Semitism and the need to combat it by identifying and addressing anti-Zionism as a strain of anti-Semitism.
The impact of October 7th on understanding anti-Semitism
The podcast highlights the significance of the events that occurred on October 7th, which revealed the explicit anti-Semitic attacks and crimes committed against Jews and Israel. It emphasizes that these acts of violence, terrorism, and barbarism exposed the deep-rooted anti-Semitism in today's society. The episode discusses the importance of recognizing the link between these acts of terrorism and the broader manifestations of anti-Semitism, both in targeting the state of Israel and individual Jews globally.
The distinction between criticism and delegitimization of Israel
The podcast explores the distinction between legitimate criticism of Israel and the delegitimization of its existence. It highlights that criticism of any country, including Israel, is valid and essential for democratic improvement. However, the episode emphasizes that criticism crosses the line into anti-Semitism when it questions or denies the very right of Israel to exist, applies double standards, and demonizes the state as an apartheid or genocidal entity. It emphasizes the importance of understanding this distinction and adhering to the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance definition of anti-Semitism.
False Moral Equivalency and the Defamation of Israel
The podcast episode highlights the phenomenon of false moral equivalency and its impact on the perception of Israel. The host discusses how Israel is often unfairly compared to genocidal terror organizations, leading to the delegitimization of the state. This false moral equivalency not only affects public opinion but also influences media coverage and political discourse. The episode emphasizes the need to differentiate between legitimate criticism of Israel and the denial, excusal, or justification of atrocities committed by terrorist groups. It stresses the importance of recognizing the connection between anti-Zionism and anti-Semitism in combating the rising tide of hatred and extremism.
The Battle Against Anti-Semitism and the Importance of Unity
The podcast episode explores the urgent need to combat anti-Semitism, which is viewed as an assault on shared humanity and civilization. The episode discusses the rise of anti-Semitic sentiments and actions, particularly in the wake of the recent conflict between Israel and Hamas. It emphasizes the importance of unity in the face of this global challenge, highlighting the need to transcend ideological, religious, and political differences. The episode calls for action and courage to fight against false narratives, misinformation, and the false moral equivalency that undermine efforts to combat anti-Semitism. It underscores the critical role of education, awareness, and the utilization of the IHRA working definition in the fight against this ancient hatred.
Among the questions we've been getting since October 7 are those about antisemitism. Does this time feel different? Why? Or, another question, when is it appropriate to be critical of Israeli Government policy, and when does it cross the line into antisemitism? What is the difference between antisemisitm and anti-zionism? Or is there a distinction at all? Is the latter simply a modern-day version of the former?
These are some of the issues we discuss in this episode with our guests: Congressman Ritchie Torres (D-NY) and Michal Cotler Wunsh, who is the Israeli Government’s Special Envoy for Combating Global Antisemitism (she is also a former Member of Israel's Knesset).
Before we move to these two interviews, we speak with Ethan Missner about the life of Israeli soldier Omer Balva, who fell last week.
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