Can Israel be Criticized?

Distinguishing Legitimate Critique from Antisemitism

Evangelical Christians are often asked whether supporting Israel means approving everything Israel does.
It does not.

Scripture shows that God both loves Israel and holds her accountable. Supporting Israel’s right to exist does not require endorsing every policy of its government.

“You only have I chosen among all the families of the earth;
Therefore I will punish you for all your iniquities.”
— Amos 3:2 (NASB)

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Is Criticizing Israel Antisemitic?

Not inherently.

Criticizing Israel’s policies, leaders, or military actions—even strongly—is not, by itself, antisemitic. Israelis themselves engage in vigorous public debate. As the only true democracy in the Middle East, Israel encourages open disagreement.

But there is a line—and Scripture calls us to discernment.

“Test all things; hold fast what is good.”
— 1 Thessalonians 5:21

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The Importance of Precision

Legitimate criticism targets specific actions or policies, not Israel’s existence as a Jewish state.

There is a decisive difference between:
• “This policy is wrong”
and
• “Israel has no right to exist.”

The latter is not critique—it is a denial of Jewish self-determination.

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When Criticism Crosses the Line: The “Three Ds”

Former Soviet dissident and Israeli leader Natan Sharansky identified three markers that distinguish legitimate criticism from antisemitism.

1. Demonization

Portraying Israel as uniquely evil, blaming it for all Middle Eastern violence, or comparing it to Nazi Germany or Auschwitz crosses the line.

“Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil.”
— Isaiah 5:20

2. Double Standards

Singling out Israel for condemnation while ignoring the blatant human rights abuses by regimes such as Iran, China, or Syria reveals moral inconsistency.

“You shall not show partiality in judgment.”
— Deuteronomy 1:17

3. Delegitimization

Denying Israel’s right to exist as a Jewish state—by labeling it inherently racist, colonial, or illegal—is antisemitic.

There are many Muslim states.
There is one Jewish state.

“Has a nation been born all at once?”
— Isaiah 66:8

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Christian Criticism Requires Discernment

Scripture itself contains prophetic rebukes of Israel. Christians may, at times, speak critically—but such criticism must meet biblical standards.

1. Is it grounded in truth?

Social media rewards outrage, not accuracy.

“The first to plead his case seems right,
Until another comes and examines him.”
— Proverbs 18:17

Much of today’s “criticism” recycles old antisemitic tropes: claims of Jewish control over media, finance, or governments; accusations of “globalists” or shadowy Jewish power; or conspiracies about Jews manipulating world events. These lies are not new—and they are not true.

Falsehood travels faster than truth. Responsible criticism requires verification and restraint.

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2. Does it align with God’s moral priorities?

Not everything that offends us offends God. Scripture records moments when God authorized actions by Israel that challenge modern sensibilities. Moral discernment must be shaped by God’s revealed priorities, not merely our emotions.

“My thoughts are not your thoughts.”
— Isaiah 55:8

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3. Does it account for today’s climate?

Antisemitism is rising globally. Extremists on both the left and right are reviving ancient libels. Even legitimate criticism, if careless or exaggerated, can unintentionally fuel antisemitic hostility.

“Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders.”
— Colossians 4:5

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The “New Antisemitism”

Classical antisemitism—blood libels, Nazi symbols, vandalized cemeteries—is easier to recognize. The modern form is subtler. Anti-Israel rhetoric can become a socially acceptable substitute for anti-Jewish sentiment in general.

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Conclusion

Criticizing Israeli policies can be legitimate—and sometimes necessary.
But when criticism:

• Demonizes Israel
• Applies double standards
• Delegitimizes Israel’s existence

…it ceases to be criticism and becomes antisemitism.

Followers of Jesus are called to truth, justice, and discernment—not slogans.

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A Simple Checklist

Acceptable Criticism
✔ Targets specific policies or actions
✔ Uses verified facts
✔ Applies consistent standards
✔ Affirms Israel’s right to exist
✔ Reflects biblical restraint

Unacceptable Criticism
✘ Denies Israel’s right to exist
✘ Compares Israel to Nazis or genocide
✘ Blames Israel for all Middle East violence
✘ Excuses the blatant abuses by other nations
✘ Uses antisemitic tropes or conspiracies

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When it comes to Israel, believers must reject both blind approval and blind hostility. We must refuse ancient hatreds dressed in modern language, while also refusing to silence legitimate concerns.

The line between rightful critique and antisemitism is narrow—but real. Crossing it does not advance justice; it fuels deception, division, and sin.

So speak carefully.
Check your facts.
Weigh your words.
Test your motives.

And above all, stand where Scripture stands:

“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem:
May they prosper who love you.”
— Psalm 122:6

-Stuart