Is it antisemitic to criticize Israel?

The International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s (IHRA) working definition of anti-Semitism has led to widespread restrictions on the rights of assembly and freedom of expression. Published in 2016, the IHRA defines anti-Semitism as “a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews. Rhetorical and physical manifestations of anti-Semitism are directed toward Jewish or non-Jewish individuals and/or their property, toward Jewish community institutions and religious facilities.” The IHRA definition text clearly states: “criticism of Israel similar to that leveled against any other country cannot be regarded as antisemitic;” however the definition has been adopted and implemented in a way that silences criticism of Israeli government policies and practices while simultaneously validating the oppression of Palestinians. Moreover, it is important to note that some of the examples of antisemitism included in the IHRA definition, particularly those related to Israel, are protected speech under the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. That means that America may not prohibit such speech or abridge it, including by conditioning penalties upon its exercise or benefits upon its suppression.