Israel-Palestine war

Calling out Israel’s war-crimes is NOT anti-Semitic:AMP

By MNN Desk Report
Published Sat, Oct 28, 2023 5:42 AM

American Muslims for Palestine (AMP) has expressed its deep concern over recent Senate resolutions that aim to condemn antisemitism. The organization emphasizes that while they unequivocally condemn all forms of hatred, including antisemitism, they believe that the language and framing of these resolutions present a one-sided narrative that could stifle critical discourse about Israel's actions and policies. AMP is worried that this one-sided approach may contribute to Islamophobia and Palestinephobia.

One of their primary concerns is that these resolutions do not distinguish between antisemitism and the legitimate right to criticize the actions of the Israeli government. They argue that this lack of distinction could enable the suppression of pro-Palestinian voices in academic institutions and create a climate of fear and self-censorship among students and faculty. This is particularly alarming at a time when they believe Israel is committing war crimes and crimes against humanity in Palestine.

AMP also expresses concern about the call to "investigate pro-Palestinian student groups' potential ties to Hamas," which they argue serves to demonize peaceful activists and student organizations advocating for justice and human rights for Palestinians. This not only impacts freedom of speech but also exposes individuals to undue scrutiny, intimidation, and potential legal consequences.

In response to these concerns, AMP calls on Congress to consider the broader impact of these resolutions and stresses that suppressing critical voices under the guise of combating antisemitism creates an atmosphere that contradicts the values of freedom, equality, and justice that the United States claims to uphold.

They call on academic institutions to safeguard freedom of speech and protect the right to engage in peaceful activism without fear of reprisal or intimidation. Additionally, they urge U.S. media to present the facts as they are, without manipulation or falsification, and to foster an environment that allows for nuanced debate and discussion on Israel-Palestine issues without labeling critical voices as antisemitic.

AMP reiterates its commitment to fighting all forms of discrimination while advocating for the right to critique governmental policies and actions, including those of Israel. They believe that dialogue and critique are essential elements of any democratic society.