Debate "Housekeeping" (03:23)

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Moderator John Donvan frames the debate on whether anti-Zionism is the new anti-Semitism and introduces panel members.

For the Motion: Bret Stephens (06:37)

New York Times Op-Ed Columnist, Stephens states that criticism of Israel is essential to Zionism; anti-Zionism is a call for Israel's destruction. For most Jews, Zionism and Israel are essential to their identity. Stephens cites reasons anti-Zionism is anti-Semitism.

Against the Motion: Peter Beinart (06:38)

Journalist and Author, Beinart states that equating anti-Zionism with anti-Semitism hurts Jews. Many Americans are anti-Zionist and not anti-Semites, and many are Zionists and anti-Semites. Most people consider ethnic and civic nationalism legitimate.

For the Motion: Einat Wilf (06:19)

Former Israeli Parliament Member, Wilf states that anti-Zionism became the mask for anti-Semitism after World War II. She considers what she has received from Zionism; it has enabled the criticism of Israel.

Against the Motion: Yousef Munayyer (06:59)

U.S. Campaign for Palestinian Rights Executive Director, Munayyer states that his hometown was subject to ethnic cleansing in 1948. As a Palestinian citizen of Israel, he has experienced anti-Semitism. Zionism aims to destroy Palestinian peoplehood.

Palestinians and Anti-Zionism (07:21)

Donvan summarizes opening statements. The proponents state that Zionism supports the Palestinian right to self-determination. Beinart argues that the Israeli government is making it unrealistic for Palestinians to have their own state.

Zionism Impact on Palestinians (07:21)

Beinart argues that Zionism is not the root of Palestinian tragedy. Munayyer counters that Palestinian oppression is not necessary for identity expression.

Binational State (06:34)

Beinart concedes that a one-state solution may not work. In theory, Zionism is no different than other forms of nationalism, but the reality is that it impacts Palestinians. Stephens counters that separate but equal does not work.

Q/A: Discrimination (05:33)

Some anti-Zionists are also anti-Semites and vice versa; most are white nationalists. Wilf believes that history shows forgoing Jewish power will result in harm to Jewish people.

Q/A: Jewish Existence in the Middle East (02:51)

Beinart agrees the Middle East has a history of anti-Semitism but cites anti-Palestinian bigotry. Wilf questions what happens if the vision fails.

QA: Equal Rights (03:17)

Wilf supports Palestinian self-determination within Gaza and the West Bank. Munayyer states that citizenship in Israel is a discriminatory system. Stephens believes Israel must work harder to realize equality.

QA: Palestinian Self-defense (03:21)

Wilf questions what Palestinians are fighting for. Beinart argues that the Israeli government is destroying the possibility of a Palestinian state.

Closing Statement For: Stephens (02:24)

Stephens cites a story of a Jewish woman in 1947 Italy. Things are changing in the U.S. and Jews may want a place to which they can return; anti-Zionism is a form of anti-Semitism.

Closing Statement Against: Beinart (02:31)

Not believing in a Jewish state does not make one an anti-Semite. Jewish people cannot buy their safety at the expense of millions of people.

Closing Statement For: Wilf (02:23)

Zionism was meant to eradicate ancient hatred, but it has become stronger. There is a better way to fight for Palestinian rights without the elimination of Jewish rights.

Closing Statement Against: Munayyer (02:22)

Munayyer recalls a man targeting a synagogue for its affiliation with HIAS. "No political ideology should be beyond reproach."

Time to Vote (03:49)

Donvan instructs the audience to vote and thanks panelists for their participation. Panelists recommend reading materials for further understanding of the debate topic.

Audience Vote Results (02:02)

Pre-debate For: 35% - Against: 36% - Undecided: 29% Post-debate For: 45% - Against: 48% - Undecided: 7%

Credits: Anti-Zionism Is the New Anti-Semitism: A Debate (00:06)

Credits: Anti-Zionism Is the New Anti-Semitism: A Debate