A recent opinion piece argues that liberal Jewish individuals and politicians should cease aligning themselves with what the author describes as "socialist radicals" who harbor animosity towards the Jewish community. The author, Yael Bar tur, who emigrated from Israel nearly 20 years ago, expresses confusion and dismay over what she perceives as a trend within certain liberal circles that requires denouncing Israel, remaining silent on racism directed at minority groups, and downplaying antisemitism unless it originates from conservative circles.
Bar tur criticizes the strategy of "inclusion of hateful actors by Jewish groups and politicians," likening it to appeasement. She points to examples such as politicians embracing what she calls the "lie of a genocide in Gaza" and celebrating events like the Oct. 7 Hamas attack. She specifically mentions Brad Lander, a figure she states considered himself a Zionist less than a year ago, for allegedly embracing such narratives and appearing in campaign ads with individuals who, according to the author, celebrated the Oct. 7 massacre.
The piece contends that some politicians and activists engage in this alignment to signal their virtue as "Good Jews" or to gain access to power within leftist circles. The author suggests these individuals are quick to condemn Israel based on social media reports but remain silent on hate crimes and attacks against Jews domestically. She posits that some are genuinely trying to extend an olive branch, while others may be swayed by emotionally charged online content or are cynically using these alliances as a "useful fig leaf."
Bar tur asserts that regardless of the intent, linking arms with individuals who exhibit hostility towards Jewish people, exemplified by phrases like "Globalize the Intifada," signals a clear stance. She concludes that while such associations might offer short-term political or social gains, they ultimately reveal the true nature of these alliances and signal a dangerous shift in political discourse where disdain for Jewish people is no longer concealed but used as a platform. The author emphasizes the importance of heeding people's actions and words, suggesting that ignorance is no longer a valid excuse for engaging with such elements.