The notion that being pro-Israel leaves no room for any criticism of Israel, on the grounds that such criticism "delegitimizes" Israel, should trouble anyone who cares about Israel's future and Israel's democratic character. It is foolish, as well as reckless and irresponsible, for anyone to deny Israel's right to exist, call for Israel's destruction, or deny Jewish ties to the land of Israel. Likewise, boycotts and divestment campaigns against Israel are generally misguided, targeting the average, innocent Israeli citizen -- who may well support peace and a two-state solution -- rather than the Israeli government policies that are ostensibly the target of such efforts. They are also largely counterproductive, provoking a "circle the wagons" response. Such a response is understandable, since much of the support for these campaigns has a virulently anti-Israel tinge, creating very real worries about global anti-Semitism and feeding the perception that the campaigns are not truly (or only) about Israeli policies but rather reflect a deep-seated hatred for and rejection of Israel.

However, criticizing and challenging Israeli policies and actions - like its continued settlement in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, its harsh treatment of non-violent protestors in Israel and the West Bank, its continued closure of Gaza, or the ongoing attacks inside Israel on democracy and democratic institutions - is entirely legitimate and, indeed, appropriate. A vibrant debate over these issues, both in Israel and the U.S., is sorely needed. Efforts to quash all criticism/protest - whether in Israel or outside Israel - by labeling it "delegitimization" are inconsistent with the core democratic values of both Israel and the U.S. - like freedom of speech, freedom to organize, and freedom to peacefully protest.

APN urges Americans to reject efforts to label all criticism of Israel as "delegitimization", recognizing that supporting Israel is not synonymous with defending all Israeli policies and actions. APN urges Americans to act as true friends of Israel by urging Israel to end policies and actions that are indefensible and that, by their nature, mobilize legitimate international criticism and directly undermine Israel's security, reputation, and character as a democracy.

(Feb. 2011)