Dear Editor,
I write in response to a recent editorial’s portrayal of Israel as pursuing a “Greater Israel” project and being responsible for “600 years of carnage”. It is my submission that articles of this nature propagate a distorted view that feeds into longstanding antisemitic conspiracy theories. These narratives are not only historically inaccurate but also rooted in prejudiced stereotypes, linking modern geopolitics to a legacy of antisemitic tropes that have long fuelled discrimination and violence against Jewish communities. Perpetuating these old conspiracies is dangerous, as it gives historical hatred a modern justification, demonizing Jews and de-legitimizing Israel’s right to exist.
The “Greater Israel” Myth and Its Dangerous Roots
The idea of a “Greater Israel” has been a recurring motif used in antisemitic propaganda to depict Jews as covert manipulators seeking to dominate the entire region. This myth has historical ties to figures like Haj Amin al-Husseini, the Grand Mufti of Jerusalem, who collaborated with Nazi Germany and propagated anti-Jewish sentiments. In a meeting with Adolf Hitler, al-Husseini stated his goal was to “solve the Jewish problem” in the Middle East, echoing the language of the Nazi regime and demonstrating the deep-seated hatred that fueled his opposition to Jewish sovereignty. Linking current Israeli policies to these conspiracy-laden narratives dangerously perpetuates old stereotypes and fuels antisemitism under the guise of political critique. The glorification of such a figure in modern Palestinian society, including the naming of streets and squares after him, is a stark reminder of how these historical animosities are still celebrated.
The “Greater Israel” project is a misconception easily debunked by Israel’s history of giving up land for peace. For example, after the Six-Day War in 1967, Israel occupied the Sinai Peninsula but returned it to Egypt in 1982 following the signing of the Egypt-Israel Peace Treaty. This was a decisive act of “land for peace,” demonstrating a willingness to compromise and respect sovereignty in pursuit of stability.
Similarly, in 2005, Israel unilaterally disengaged from Gaza, evacuating all settlements and military presence with the hope of fostering peace. These examples reinforce that the nation’s actions are driven by a desire for stability and recognition, not conquest. As Ariel Sharon, former Prime Minister of Israel, stated, “The time has come to stop demonising Israel and its people. There is no contradiction between building our homes and seeking peace. We have shown that we are prepared to give up land for peace.” Such statements from political leaders demonstrate a consistent commitment to peace and compromise, directly contradicting the myth of expansionism.
The Oslo Accords and the Failure of Peace
While Israel has made significant efforts toward peace, including the Oslo Accords, these agreements have been repeatedly undermined by breaches from Palestinian authorities. These breaches include the facilitation of violent attacks against civilians and a persistent refusal to recognise the right of Israel to exist as a Jewish state. Such actions betray the spirit of negotiation and compromise. A sincere path to peace must involve accountability and mutual respect, not one-sided narratives that demonise Israel.
International institutions and much of the media often perpetuate a biased narrative that emphasises Palestinian suffering while downplaying Israel’s security concerns and the historical context of Jewish persecution. This imbalance fuels an environment where old antisemitic tropes flourish, manifesting as real-world hatred and violence.
This is a key reason for the sharp increase in “Jew hatred” globally, including incidents of synagogue burnings, boycotts, and physical violence against Jews and Jewish institutions, which have escalated to several murders. The demonisation of Israel’s self-defence actions and the refusal to acknowledge the complex history of the conflict have created a climate where antisemitic acts are increasingly normalised. For example, recent years have seen a disturbing rise in incidents where synagogues are vandalised or attacked, and Jewish businesses and individuals are targeted with boycotts and harassment – even in Jamaica.
The path to a just and lasting peace lies in honest dialogue, mutual recognition, and a rejection of prejudiced narratives that seek to demonise Israel. The international community has a responsibility to support efforts that acknowledge Israel’s legitimate rights and security needs, fostering an environment conducive to peace and co-existence. As Ariel Sharon once said, “True peace…can only be built on a foundation of mutual recognition and compromise, not on the demonisation of one side.”
I am,
Francesca Tavares
