The assertion that any criticism of Israel necessarily constitutes anti-Semitism is both logically flawed and historically unsound. It oversimplifies a complex political reality, stifles legitimate discourse, and distorts the very meaning of "anti-Semitism".
- Understanding anti-Semitism
Anti-Semitism is traditionally defined as hostility, prejudice, or discrimination directed at Semitic peoples, originally encompassing a broad range of ethnic and linguistic groups, not solely Jews. While the Zionists and the State of Israel have tried to associate anti-Semitism exclusively with anti-Jewish sentiment, particularly in light of the Holocaust, it is important to recognise that Semitic identity encompasses a much broader range of peoples.
Indeed, Palestinians, who are themselves Semitic, have suffered systematic discrimination and violence. To conflate criticism of Israeli policies with anti-Semitism not only undermines genuine efforts to combat racial and religious hatred but also silences valid concerns, particularly regarding the treatment of Palestinian people.
- The Semitic peoples: A broader legacy
The term "Semitic" originates from linguistics, denoting a family of languages that includes Maltese, Arabic, Hebrew, Aramaic, and Phoenician, among others. Over time, the term has come to refer to the peoples who spoke these languages and who share significant cultural and historical ties throughout the Mediterranean and the Near East.
Among the oldest known Semitic peoples are the Maltese and Lebanese, whose linguistic and genetic roots stretch back thousands of years. The Maltese language, still spoken today, is the only Semitic language written in Latin script and remains an enduring testament to Malta's Semitic heritage. Similarly, the Lebanese people are largely descended from the ancient Phoenicians, a Semitic civilisation that played a pivotal role in shaping Mediterranean culture.
It is, therefore, intellectually disingenuous to suggest that anti-Semitism applies exclusively to Jews. While the Jewish experience of anti-Semitism is both profound and historically unique, it is not exclusive in the broader Semitic context.
- Malta: A Semitic legacy rooted in antiquity
Malta's Semitic roots predate the Arab conquests of the 9th to 11th centuries AD. Archaeological and historical evidence points to Phoenician settlement as early as 2000 BC. These early Semitic seafarers brought with them language, religious beliefs, and trade networks that deeply influenced the islands.
While Italian and English have left a significant imprint on the Maltese language, its fundamental structure and vocabulary remain Semitic in origin. Maltese developed from Siculo-Arabic, which in turn evolved from earlier Semitic tongues such as Phoenician and Aramaic. This places the Maltese people squarely within the Semitic linguistic and cultural family, just as firmly as Jews and Arabs.
To overlook Malta's Semitic identity when discussing anti-Semitism is to ignore one of the most ancient strands of this heritage.
- Lebanon and the Semitic heartland
Lebanon, likewise, is a cornerstone of Semitic civilisation. The ancient Phoenicians, who emerged from this region, are widely acknowledged as one of the earliest Semitic peoples. They established influential city-states such as Tyre, Sidon, and Byblos, which became cultural and commercial hubs of the ancient Mediterranean.
Modern-day Lebanese, who speak Arabic (a Semitic language) and often identify with Phoenician ancestry, embody a living continuation of Semitic tradition. Their linguistic, genetic, and cultural ties to other Semitic groups, including Jews and Arabs, are both deep and undeniable.
Thus, framing criticism of Israeli policies as inherently anti-Semitic not only suppresses legitimate debate but also falsely implies that only Jews possess Semitic identity, an assumption that erases the rich histories of peoples such as the Lebanese and Maltese.
- The dangers of misappropriating the term "anti-Semitism"
The misuse of "anti-Semitism" to deflect criticism of Israel's government is deeply problematic for several reasons:
- It delegitimises honest political discourse, particularly around international law, human rights, and the treatment of Palestinians.
- It undermines the struggle against actual anti-Semitism, diluting the term to the point of ambiguity and weakening its moral force.
- It marginalises other Semitic peoples, whose identities and histories are effectively dismissed or forgotten.
Such rhetorical overreach not only fails the test of logic but also damages efforts to promote justice, accountability, and peace in the region.
- Distinguishing between Judaism, Zionism, and the State of Israel
A further source of confusion stems from mixing Judaism (a religion), Zionism (a political ideology), and Israel (a modern nation-State). Not all Jews are Zionists, and not all Zionists are Jews. Many Jews, including prominent religious and secular voices, oppose the policies or very premise of the Israeli State.
Critiquing the actions of the Israeli government or opposing Zionist ideology is not synonymous with attacking Judaism or Jewish individuals. Maintaining this distinction is vital if discussions about the Middle East are to remain rational, respectful, and grounded in ethical clarity.
Conclusion: Reclaiming the true meaning of Semitic identity
To brand all criticism of Israel as anti-Semitic is both inaccurate and unjust. Such assertions trivialise real anti-Semitism and shut down essential conversations about justice, human rights, and political accountability.
Crucially, this position ignores the broader family of Semitic peoples, Maltese, Lebanese, Arabs, Jews, and others, whose intertwined histories stretch back millennia. Malta and Lebanon, in particular, represent some of the earliest known Semitic civilisations, with living languages and cultures that continue to reflect their ancient heritage.
The term "anti-Semitism" should be used carefully and responsibly. It must not become a shield for political entities or ideologies, nor should it be wielded in ways that erase the identities of other Semitic peoples. Only by respecting the full breadth of Semitic heritage can we foster a more honest and inclusive understanding, one that supports genuine solidarity against all forms of prejudice.
Professor David Zammit serves as both a lecturer and the Rector of Pro Deo International University in Italy. He has been actively engaged in the field of education for the past 35 years. Throughout his career, he has delivered lectures in various countries and has participated as a speaker at numerous symposia.