Israel/Palestine
In reply to the discussion: Yes, anti-Zionism is anti-Semitism [View all]Democratopia
(552 posts)One reason that there is resentment against Zionism is exactly the situation you describe.
Does a Scotsman who wants Scotland to divorce itself from the UK hate England and all English people? No. But a man who does not agree with Zionism is guaranteed to be called anti-Semitic.
Does a Texan who wants Texas to leave USA hate Americans? No. But a man who does not agree with Zionism is guaranteed to be called anti-Semitic.
There are two different issues. 1 - Religion. 2 - Nationalism. Some Jews may not see the difference. Others do.
In my experience, the most fervent Zionist don't even live in Israel. In USA, our founders saw the importance of separation of state and religion and that is how it should be. As you say, the anti-Semitic card has been overplayed. It has been overplayed by the political right in America to suit an agenda that Israel be used as a puppet for US foreign policy. If there shall be no discussion and no debate, then there ceases to be democracy.