THE ASSAULT ON ISRAEL’S LEGITIMACY The Frustrating 20X Question: Why Is It Still Growing?

Condition, Direction and Response

January 2017 Version A 1

This document is an important step forward in confronting one of the main challenges to Israel and the Jewish people in our time. Its analysis is careful and considered, sets out well the current situation, and advances valuable proposals for a coherent global Jewish response.”

Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks

The correlation between the Ministry’s mode of operation and what comes out of this document is very high, and has already proven effective, I am glad to see that we share a very similar point of view regarding the challenge and desired strategy.”

Sima Vaknin-Gil Director General, Ministry of Strategic Affairs 2 The Assault on Israel’s Legitimacy 3

Executive Summary principles. This report is designed to serve the principles and guidelines for a more efficient and individual program or initiative in the field. entire field of those advocating on behalf of effective response. ARC: The ADL-Reut Partnership Israel’s fundamental legitimacy. Our aim is that it Key Findings: A Competition ADL and Reut hold this report to be a ‘Version of Adaptation In January 2016, the Anti-Defamation League will complement and reinforce existing initiatives, A’, which brings together our conclusions and (ADL) and the Reut Group launched a partnership which are successful, and inspire new ones. recommendations within a coherent framework. 2010 was a turnaround year for the fight against to fight the assault on the legitimacy of the ARC was launched on the basis of extensive field Its purpose is to serve as a platform for accurate delegitimization. It was then, primarily following state of Israel. This partnership was the ‘ADL-Reut research. In total, some 150 meetings, interviews and focused professional discussion of its the so-called Gaza Flotilla, that the State of Collaboration’ (ARC). and site visits were held with governmental and observations, conclusions and recommendations. Israel and many Jewish communities around the world awakened to the scope of this challenge. ARC was launched on the foundations of both non-governmental entities in Israel and in the U.S., Feedback will be collected over the coming few This resulted in a robust global effort to combat organizations’ shared outlook, viewing delegiti- particularly in NYC, Boston, the San Francisco Bay weeks and months will be integrated into a full and delegitimization, underwritten with new resources. mization of Israel as a form of anti-Semitism in its Area and Washington DC, as well as with organiza- comprehensive ‘Version B’. Nonetheless, delegitimization persists, the singular denial of the universal right of self-deter- tions and activists from Europe. ADL and Reut are This report aims to provide the ‘big picture’ of movement that supports it has expanded and has mination to the Jewish people alone, as well as a grateful to all of them for their contribution and the condition and direction of its subject matter. increased its effectiveness and sophistication, shared commitment to the well-being and security generosity of time and spirit. Hence, while it aims to mention all key dynamics and an unfavorable “spirit of the time” (Zeitgeist) of the State of Israel and the Jewish people. related to the delegitimization of Israel, it does not Scope and ‘The 20X Question’ remains prevalent. These dynamics underlie the provide significant analysis in key related areas, Since its inception in 1913, ADL has been a conundrum of the ‘20X question’. This Strategic Framework is designed to leader in fighting anti-Semitism and all forms of which merit further investigation but fall beyond Hence, the key focus of this report is the prejudice and bigotry, and in its commitment to serve people and organizations in positions of its scope, including: authority, leadership and influence, engaged in pro-Israel network’s need to improve its own a thriving, secure, democratic and Jewish state. ▪▪A global mapping of the delegitimization cam- combatting the delegitimization of Israel. These adaptive capacity and to out-adapt the dele- It is motivated by a long-standing commitment paign or of local dynamics and trends in specific organizations and individuals, from across the gitimization network and the delegitimization to supporting Israel including its quest for peace countries; movement. Transforming the pro-Israel network through a resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian political spectrum and around the world, represent ▪▪Complete historical context for the contempo- into a significant and sustained adaptive entity will conflict on the basis of a Two-State Solution. a multiplicity of outlooks and approaches and bring rary manifestations of delegitimization; provide the network with a sustained advantage Its commitment to fighting against the delegit- a broad range of assets and capabilities to dealing over the delegitimization movement, allowing it imization of Israel stems from its view that this with this challenge. That diversity is essential. ▪▪Deep analysis of the dynamics of the Israeli- to accomplish successive and repeated achieve- phenomenon today serves as a potent platform The focus of this report is the ‘20X question:’ Palestinian conflict, political process or final ments and to ultimately diminish dramatically for manifestations of anti-Semitism across the How can it be that the collective investment status issues; the question regarding Israel’s right to exist world and runs counter to the goal of obtaining a of the Jewish community in dealing with this ▪▪ The status of Israel’s non-Jewish communities, from public discourse. This will require a series peace agreement in the future. challenge is estimated to be twenty-fold bigger and primarily its Arab minority; of structural investments, the upgrading of over the past six years, yet results remain The Reut Group has been committed to ▪▪Specific ‘answers’ to critics of Israel or Zionism; some operating principles, and developing new elusive? According to some rough estimates, in responding to the challenge of the assault on knowledge regarding several key aspects of 2016 the Jewish community in the U.S. alone will ▪▪A thorough examination of Iran’s role as a Israel’s legitimacy since the fall of 2008. The the challenge. leading state instigator of delegitimization and intended effects of Reut’s work on this issue, have invested 20 times more resources in fighting anti-Semitism; as initially defined in its seminal work of January the delegitimization of Israel compared to its Structural Response 2010, Building a Political Firewall against the investment in 2010. Nonetheless, the challenge ▪▪Broader challenges of countering violent extrem- Four structural recommendations are highlighted Delegitimization of Israel, were to be a catalyst for to the fundamental legitimacy of Israel, presented ism and the strategic threats facing Israel and in this report: among other aspects, by BDS campaigns, and the the United States from terrorism. the emergence of a pro-Israel network that turns ▪▪There is an acute need to upgrade the collateral rise in anti-Semitism, are growing around the tables on the delegitimizers, while re-uniting As this report is meant to provide overarching information-gathering and strategy-building the world. the Jewish world around Israel. strategic coherence to all ongoing efforts, it does capabilities of the pro-Israel network, and to The keystone of ARC is this joint Strategic In order to address this question, this report not contain detailed descriptions of the specific better integrate them with field activities. This Framework for countering the assault on Israel’s identifies and highlights key gaps in the collec- initiatives, programmatic and operational, that ARC will require an effective feedback loop among legitimacy, highlighting the condition and direction tive outlook and approach in the understanding will design and launch. This report also should not information-gathering and analysis, strategizing; of this challenge and introducing response of and response to this challenge. It also offers be read as an assessment of the efficacy of any research, development and experimentation, and 4 The Assault on Israel’s Legitimacy 5

operations. ‘bystanders’. It explains how the delegitimization been marginalized by legislation, government language and tactics in the pursuit of its campaign increased its base of support by ap- policies and public discourse. This framing aims. This contributes toward a decline of the ▪▪Against this back- naturally enhances the challenge posed by the negotiation paradigm, and also may enhance drop, cyberspace, pealing to broader audiences, and demonstrates trend of intersectionality; the coordination and feedback loop between broadly defined, how the pro-Israel network can adopt different activities around the world and within the West stands out as a strategies of engagement vis-à-vis each group. ▪▪Breakdown of the two-state solution – The Bank. Up until now the delegitimization campaign crucially important ▪▪A united, not unified, response – The Long Tail expansion of the delegitimization movement, has been executed almost exclusively by arena (for moni- Model highlights the diversity of the groups particularly on campus and especially since Western organizations, without real PA backing. toring and counter that comprise the growing delegitimization 2014, has been fueled by the breakdown of the Unless properly addressed, this new conduct and pro-active movement. Therefore, it also highlights the political process between Israel and the Pales- of the PA could complicate many aspects of strategies) which requires more resources and essential need for a broad and diverse Jewish tinians and the perceived lack of commitment the BDS campaign and constitute a strategic attention due to its current influence, rapid and pro-Israel coalition against it, which is able by the Government of Israel to end the control surprise to Israel with meaningful national growth and growing complexity. to work together despite inevitable deep differ- over the Palestinians in the West Bank. This security implications. has also been fueled by a concomitant rise in ▪▪Many of the entities comprising the pro-Israel ences in outlook and values. For such a coalition public discourse within Israel favoring outright ▪▪The targeted boycott effort against Israel’s network should ‘professionalize’ by focusing to emerge, the pro-Israel network needs to annexation of territories. In other words, the continued presence in the West Bank, and their efforts in areas where their attributes narrow the definition of what constitutes inability of governmental action to provide a particularly the settlements, is gaining create a unique value proposition in the field. delegitimization, acknowledging the particularly credible horizon for the resolution of the conflict momentum. This effort, exemplified by product vital significance of those who are willing to fight ▪▪There needs to be investment in simple, legitimizes non-governmental action labeling by the EU, now increasingly is embraced delegitimization among progressive groups even flexible, affordable and scalable platforms and and activism. in some form by a both progressive Israelis as as they criticize Israeli government policies. tools to support local communities and key well as among liberal Zionists outside Israel, ▪▪Anti-normalization – This idea, which rejects niche efforts e.g. for information gathering and ▪▪Thought Leadership– Since the delegitimization who frame their positions as motivated by any interaction with Israelis or increasingly analysis, project management, collaboration and movement is founded on intellectual arguments effort to secure Israel’s future as a Jewish and with supporters of Israel in any form, even in that challenge the foundations of Zionism, democratic state. This trend may eventually learning. conferences explicitly devoted to peace and there is a need to systematically counter those affect many Jewish institutions, as the demand Operating Principles dialogue, but also in other arenas, has been arguments with equally appealing and sophisti- for clarity about positions regarding initiatives expanding among Palestinians as well as among Several operational principles need to be inte- cated approaches. “across the Green Line.” Arab political figures in Israel. In recent years grated into the work of the pro-Israel network: Emerging Challenges and in a much milder form, it has been spreading ▪▪The Silent Boycott –While most explicit ▪▪Articulating the right goal: The overall effect The concepts below were identified as increas- within the Western countries, mainly manifested BDS initiatives are blocked, a more prevalent the pro-Israel network should strive for is to in academia and on campuses. collateral damage emerges in the form of a silent ingly important issues facing the pro-Israel alter the unfavorable Zeitgeist in which boycott – undeclared decisions by organizations, network with significant potential impact on ▪▪Israel’s internal issues of religious pluralism – Israel’s legitimacy is determined – Alongside companies, and individuals to refrain from Israel’s legitimacy. They require not only research Among the majority of US Jews who affiliate the efforts to counter delegitimization, a pro-ac- engaging with Israeli entities motivated by and learning, but also new types of activities: non-Orthodox, growing criticism of Israel’s tive and positive campaign aimed at generating ideology or simply by a desire to avoid unneces- treatment of non-orthodox denominations and a ‘legitimacy surplus’ for Israel is essential. The ▪▪The Rise of ‘Intersectionality’– Because of a sary problems and criticism. the dominant role of the Chief Rabbinate fuels successes of the delegitimization success can discourse of intersectionality, the delegitimiza- indifference and resentment toward Israel. The ▪▪Anti-BDS legislation? –Recent years have seen be attributed to a favorable Zeitgeist. Without tion movement has successfully been able to embodiment of this dynamic is the controversy a surge in legislative efforts, especially in the focusing on the underlying Zeitgeist, every frame the Palestinian struggle against Israel over egalitarian prayer at the Western Wall. U.S., legally curtailing BDS activities. However, “victory” against delegitimization may only have as part of the struggle of other disempowered However, this dynamic is an opportunity that these efforts raise concerns about a backlash short-term tactical significance. minorities, such as African-Americans and the BDS can exploit and diminishes the coherence of due to what is framed as an infringement on free LGBTQ community, and therefore to include ▪▪Segmented Long-Tail response – The “Long the pro-Israel network. speech, and the effectiveness of this legislation itself in the loose-coalitions of these groups Tail Model” we use in this document to explain and unintended consequences remains to that support each other’s causes; ▪▪The Palestinian Authority (PA) has embraced a be seen. the challenge, distinguishes between several confrontational diplomatic approach, adopting groups, including the ‘delegitimizers’ who lead ▪▪Framing of Israeli-Arabs as a disenfranchised some of the delegitimization campaign’s ▪▪U.S.-Israel Relations post elections – The the campaign, harsh and soft critics, as well as indigenous population that increasingly has 6 The Assault on Israel’s Legitimacy 7

election results in the US may lead to a set Over the past six years, the pro-Israel commu- Table of Contents of paradoxical outcomes related to delegiti- nity has shown remarkable mobilization and mization. In the short term, potentially warmer growth as it stood up to the challenge of Israel’s Executive Summary 2 The Challenge of Targeted Boycotts 21 relationship between the new administration in delegitimization. No doubt the professional ARC: The ADL-Reut Partnership 2 The Decline of Jewish Communal Cohesion 22 Washington can be expected with the Govern- branch within the Government of Israel, led by Scope and ‘The 20X Question’ 2 The Erosion of Israel as a Unifying Force 22 ment of Israel. This is likely to strengthen Israel’s the Ministry for Strategic Affairs (MSA), has standing in the international arena. Furthermore, inserted a great degree of sophistication and Key Findings: A Competition of Adaptation 3 The Religious Gap Dividing U.S. and Israeli Jews 23 at a time of unprecedented polarization within creativity to the pro-Israel network. Moreover, Table of Contents 7 American society, these warm relationship may The Response: Building Adaptive Capacities 23 the evolving approach of the MSA seems to be paradoxically exacerbate the challenges in other Acknowledgments 8 Structural and Operational Response 23 consistent with the conclusions of this arenas, to the extent that strong negative views strategic framework. Background: The Assault on 9 Structural Investments: Pro-Israel 23 toward the administration – prevalent among Israel’s Legitimacy Network 2.0 many American Jews and non-Jewish liberals It is now time to upgrade the capacities of the and progressives – will be associated with Israel pro-Israel network, eventually turning the table The 20X Question: 20-Fold More Resources 9 Upgraded Capabilities in Intelligence 24 and its policies. on the delegitimizers. to What Effect? and Strategy Understanding the Delegitimization of Israel 9 Bolstering Cyber Presence 24 and the BDS Challenge Specialization 24 A Network and a Social Movement 10 Supporting Small Communities and Niche Efforts 25 with a ‘Long-Tail’ Operational Principles 25 Competition of Learning and 11 Success Would be to Change the 25 Adaptive Capacities Unfavorable Zeitgeist The Rise of the Delegitimization Network 11 Segmented Response along the Long Tail 26 The Pro-Israel Network: Steep Learning Curve 13 General Operating Principles: Narrow the 26 and Significant Successes Definition and Broaden the Tent The Delegitimization Network: Steep 14 Legitimacy Surplus 27 Learning Curve and Resilience Doubling Down on Europe and 28 Emerging Challenges 16 Other Crucial Places Intersectionality 16 Marginalizing Delegitimizers and Instigators 28 European Experience and Engagement 17 Harsh Critics: Winning the Battle of Ideas 29 with the Muslim Community through Thought Leadership and Anti-Normalization 17 Specialized Research The Breakdown of the Two-State Solution 18 The Long Tail and the Bystanders 29 Eroding Perceptions of Israel’s Commitment 19 Are the True Battle Ground to Pluralism, Democracy and Peace In Conclusion: Greater Focus 30 Palestinian Confrontational Diplomacy 20 on Adaptive Capacities The Silent Boycott 21 Annex: List of Experts 31 How Far Should We Take Anti-BDS Legislation? 21 8 The Assault on Israel’s Legitimacy 9

Acknowledgments members who contributed to this effort include Background: The Assault of delegitimization persists and evolves, Mr. Gidi Grinstein, Reut Group Founder; Ms. and the unfavorable spirit of time to Israel This Strategic Framework is the product of on Israel’s Legitimacy Clareta Treger, head of the Reut team which looks (Zeitgeist) remains prevalent. In fact, it is the partnership and collaboration between the into the assault on Israel’s legitimacy; and Mr. Igal The 20X Question: 20-Fold More broadly agreed that this massive effort by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), led by its CEO, Ram, Founding Director of Firewall Israel, Reut’s Jewish community and the State of Israel has Jonathan Greenblatt, and the Reut Group, led by Resources to What Effect? web-platform for fighting the delegitimization of not yet led to a decisive ‘victory’ against the Founder and Honorary President, Gidi Grinstein. 1. Since 2010, the assault on Israel’s fun- Israel. In addition, the Reut Group is grateful to delegitimization of Israel nor has it anchored This partnership was launched in January 2016. damental legitimacy has become a major our consultants: Mr. Eran Shayshon, Associate Israel’s fundamental legitimacy. concern for both the Government of Israel More than 150 experts, academics, activists, Director at APCO Worldwide Tel Aviv office, and and Jewish communities around the world. Understanding the Delegitimization and practitioners from across the political former Director of Policy and Strategy at Reut and While, anti-Zionism has existed since the of Israel and the BDS Challenge spectrum of the Jewish community, in Israel, the Rabbi Douglas Kahn, Executive Director Emeritus inception of Zionism and the establishment U.S. and elsewhere have been engaged in the of the San Francisco Jewish Community Relations 4. For the purpose of this Strategic Framework, of the State of Israel, in 2001 at the World course of this joint effort since January 2016. Council (JCRC). We are also grateful to our the delegitimization of Israel is defined as Conference Against Racism (known as the Their wisdom and experience have contributed research associates: Wendy Wagner and Reuben the singular negation of the right of the Durban I Conference) it shifted in a significant to this Strategic Framework. In addition, we have State of Israel to exist as the expression of Berman, and to our web-intelligence analysts: Ran way to affect Western societies particularly conducted extensive research of texts and videos. the Jewish people’s right to national self- Boldor and Jennifer Poliakov-Zhorov. Finally, the within liberal elites and progressive circles. The full list of contributors to this effort is determination. It constitutes an assault on Reut Group is deeply grateful to American Friends For about a decade, until the Gaza Flotilla available as Annex to this document. the political, security, and economic model of Reut, and specifically to the Lisa and Michael incident of May 2010, this assault was mostly of the State of Israel with the vision and The Reut Group effort within this partnership was Leffell Foundation, the Rodan Family Philan- disregarded and underestimated except in objective of bringing about its implosion. led by Ms. Talia Gorodess, Managing Director thropic Fund, the Margolis Family Foundation and specific ‘hot spots.’ However, in recent years it This campaign is inspired by the political of the Reut Institute, which is the research and the Rose Project of Orange County, and to Joe has become a rallying cry in Israel and among implosion of Apartheid South Africa, the Soviet strategy arm of the Reut Group. Other Reut team and Tina Wolf for their support of this effort. Jewish communities around the world. (For an Union, and East Germany. overarching historical context of the assault on Israel’s legitimacy, see Reut’s Conceptual 5. In singling out the State of Israel, in Framework: Building a Political Firewall against delegitimizing and demonizing it, and in the Delegitimization of Israel, January, 2010 denying Jewish nationalism, this campaign and the forthcoming ADL White Paper on represents a form of anti-Semitism, and Delegitimization). indeed often promotes explicitly anti-Semitic ideas and imagery in pursuit of its aims. 2. As the State of Israel and its allies awakened However, anti-Semitism is merely one driver to the scope of this challenge, this has led to of the campaign, which is also driven by other a robust coordinated global effort to combat motives. delegitimization on every front, from inter- national fora to university campuses. Dozens 6. A narrow definition is crucially important of new organizations and initiatives, small for an effective response and ultimately for and large, have been launched with generous achieving success because it focuses on funding; the Government of Israel focused those who are true adversaries of Zionism, its Ministry of Strategic Affairs on this issue; the Jewish people, and the State of Israel, and many existing organizations increased rather than on a much wider array of those who their activities in this area. These efforts have might be critical of aspects of Israeli policy. transformed the pro-Israel movement in terms In contrast, any expansion of this definition of talent, technology, and organization. significantly compromises prospects for success, because it causes internal disagree- 3. However, many remain concerned that ments among the pro-Israel movement and despite these investments, the challenge expands the group of perceived adversaries. 10 The Assault on Israel’s Legitimacy 11

7. The delegitimization campaign of Israel means that they are ‘flat’ with no single inadvertently) and more centrally as the critics and legitimizes their statements and currently manifests in five distinct arenas: entity or group of individuals that are ‘in justification for the mobilization of the actions, which draw intellectuals and elites In the media; in international organizations, charge.’ Instead, most of their activities are Long Tail; that shape public attitudes toward Israel and particularly the United Nations; within initiated locally and in a bottom-up fashion. influence progressives and liberals. That, in different national governments through Achieving success turn, fuels the Zeitgeist. In this manner, the political positions taken by their governments against a network instigators are able to create an impact or politicians; through legal means, known as must therefore be far greater than their actual size and true ‘lawfare’; and by the Boycotts, Divestment and defined in terms of ideological appeal. Sanctions Movement (BDS). A sixth method the aggregate of local of ‘mega-events’ (e.g. Flotillas and Flytillas) wins. Competition of Learning was generally abandoned by the end of 2012 11. This anti-Israel campaign takes place in and Adaptive Capacities despite sporadic attempts to revive it. multiple arenas. These include, but are not 15. The 2010-2016 period has shown that 8. The BDS Movement is the chief effort and limited to campuses and academia, ‘cyber- both sides of this struggle possess very strategy of the delegitimization movement. space’, in labor unions, churches, media and ▪▪The ‘Long Tail’ is made up mostly of indi- significant adaptive capacities. The ability Its goal is within the NGO community and international viduals who are critical of Israeli policies. to learn and adapt is the crucial characteristic explicitly to or multinational organizations.1 While one of They can embrace some of the terminology of success in a dynamic system and a rapidly inspire and the conclusions of this Strategic Framework is and methods used by the instigators due changing environment. In terms of adaptive ca- mobilize a global that each of these arenas requires a special- in large part to their opposition to Israel’s pacity, both sides are performing significantly movement of ized treatment, designing strategies specific policies or simply because of the predomi- better in 2016 compared to 2010. organizations to each is beyond the scope of this paper. nant ‘spirit of the-time’, or Zeitgeist. Most of 16. A key message and focus of this report is and individuals to take action against Israel. them do not share the vision or fundamental 12. The ‘Long Tail model’ is essential in explain- that the pro-Israel network’s major challenge Notwithstanding the fact that its actual eco- motivations of the delegitimizers, nor do ing and understanding the delegitimization is to improve its own ‘adaptive capacity’ and nomic impact has been limited if not marginal, they seek Israel’s elimination. campaign and the community that drive and to out-adapt the delegitimization network. its main effect has mainly been in defining the support it. The model highlights four groups: ▪▪A yet larger group of ‘bystanders’ is made discourse around Israel and mobilizing new up of those who have not yet shaped their The Rise of the Delegitimization Network supporters. BDS is merely one tactic in the ▪▪‘The head’ is made up of a relatively small opinion of Israel, and are part of the target 17. The World Conference Against Racism, campaign to delegitimize Israel, and recent number of hard-core delegitimizers who audience of the delegitimization campaign. otherwise known as the Durban Conference, trends indicate that it may be declining at least explicitly or tacitly negate Israel’s right to held in Durban South Africa in 2001 is in the U.S., which should not be taken to mean exist and the right of the Jewish people to 13. Distinction among these groups is essential often seen as a turning point in the effort that delegitimization itself is in decline. self-determination. They comprise the insti- for success. Successful engagement gators of the delegitimization movement; with each group fundamentally requires to delegitimize Israel and signaled the rise 9. It is important to note that, at this point, different approaches and tools. Furthermore, of a global delegitimization movement. It ▪▪‘The body’ is made up of a larger number of even if the BDS campaign is marginalized, approaching one group with assumptions or was then that a current form of the global ‘harsh critics.’ These are mostly individuals the delegitimization of Israel by would likely tools designed to target another can prove anti-Israel movement began to emerge and Indeed, recent or organizations, often found in academia, continue in other forms. ineffective and even counterproductive. begin to shape the prevailing zeitgeist. Initially successes in the fight against BDS activities media outlets, international organizations or Mislabeling the Long Tail as “delegitimizers,” for this movement was driven by radical left-wing in the U.S. have led to some new directions in NGOs, who espouse profound and consis- example, can serve to diminish credibility and groups, primarily based in Europe, in coalition that campaign, which are evident in 2015 tent criticism of Israeli policies and conduct. drive away elements of the Long Tail that can with Islamic associations. In recent years, and 2016. Their work can serve to substantiate the otherwise be engaged and drawn away from however, it has been mainstreamed, primarily claims of the delegitimizers (at times within left wing audiences, but it is no longer A Network and a Social Movement the delegitimization movement. 1 During the interviews we conducted, sixteen arenas were identified, limited to a radical fringe. with a ‘Long-Tail’ with the most prominent of them being academia and campuses; 14. There is a feedback loop between the Long cyber space and social media; traditional media e.g. TV, newspapers Tail and the Zeitgeist: the delegitimization 18. The growth of this movement was based on a 10. The campaign to delegitimize Israel and the and radio; among corporations and in the area of trade and commerce; in the fields of arts, culture and sports; among labor unions, churches campaign catalyzes an unfavorable Zeitgeist. few strategic principles: BDS movement are organized as a network and religious institutions; through diplomacy, politics and official policies; among international institutions and specifically the United This environment in turn, amplifies the harsh ▪▪Challenging the fundamental intellectual and operate as a social movement. This Nations; and the field of law. 12 The Assault on Israel’s Legitimacy 13

underpinnings of Zionism and offering an bracing a discourse of human rights and ▪▪Iranian state-sponsored anti-Zionism and 20. For nearly a decade, the delegitimization alternative narrative which emphasizes the international law and by placing exclusive anti-Semitism and Holocaust denial (Iran’s network expanded primarily in Western dislocation and disenfranchising of Pales- responsibility on Israel. In other words, role in the assault on Israel’s legitimacy is Europe and gradually also in the United tinians, as well as the continuity between it builds its coalitions by framing Israel as beyond the scope of this Report)4; States, encountering little resistance or Zionism, colonialism and global imperialism. solely responsible for the situation in the awareness, including from the Government ▪▪Undermining the Israeli-Palestinian peace This narrative frames the Palestinian West Bank and Gaza and removed from of Israel. This reality changed in 2010. process and rejecting the principle of struggle and anti-Israel sentiments and the history or reality of Israeli Palestinian two-states-for-two-people and therefore action as part of anti-colonial movements negotiations and mutual responsibilities. The Pro-Israel Network: Steep Learning a two-state solution to the Israeli-Pales- and necessitates therefore solidarity among Curve and Significant Successes ▪▪Legitimizing attacks on Israel’s civilian tinian conflict. This principle emanates from all those resisting colonialism. Thereby it population while delegitimizing the the fundamental rejection of Israel’s basic 21. Events in 2010 served as a wake-up call for clashes with Zionism’s basic moral claim as defensive use of military force against political model, which mandates that any Israel and Jewish communities around the a movement for the national liberation of the Arab and Palestinian terror organizations Israeli-Palestinian agreement that accords world in relation to the expanding global Jewish people, which is indigenous to the such as Hezbollah and Hamas. legitimacy to Israel is flawed and illegitimate. movement to delegitimize Israel. With the Land of Israel based on the universal right of Paradoxically, for practical reasons, Israel’s Gaza Flotilla incident, this movement began national self-determination; for this reason, 19. A feedback loop exists between the control over the Palestinian population in the to be seen as a strategic threat by Israel and the narrative takes aim at the identity of the delegitimization campaign in Western West Bank is seen as a strategic asset, as Jewish people as a nation. countries and the logic and network of it constitutes a growing strategic, political, Moqawama (resistance), which includes Iran, ▪▪ and diplomatic liability for the State of Israel; Framing Israel as Hamas, Hezbollah and the Islamic Brotherhood an Apartheid state, associations around the Middle East and ▪▪Terrorism and asymmetric warfare associates Israel primarily in Europe. As demonstrated in Reut’s targeting and using civilian population: the with the racist and previous conceptual framework2, the logic of rationale of the delegitimization network immoral system of the Moqawama rejects Israel’s fundamental allows for systematic targeting of the Israeli governance that ex- legitimacy and any normalization with it, and civilian population and using Palestinians as isted in South Africa, therefore the campaign to delegitimize human shields. Meanwhile, it is deployed to thereby demonizing many Jewish communities around the world. Israel fits within a broader strategy to prevent or limit Israel’s use of military force and delegitimizing it. The objective at its bring about Israel’s implosion. Furthermore, to protect its citizens in response.5 22. Since then, a massive investment of re- core is to associate Israel with a morally these actors, who were outflanked by Israel’s sources and talent has been directed to contain reprehensible political system rather than The Second Lebanon War of 2006 can be seen military superiority in the battlefield, now view and marginalize this assault, and a variety of as a function of any particular policy. as a milestone in this regard. Massive waves of This international and public opinion pressure as a organizations, tools, and methodologies were anti-Israel protests sprung up in multiple European outlook takes aim at the legitimacy of tool to circumvent Israel’s comparative military consequently developed (see Reut’s paper: 2011: capitals against Israel, although the war was Israel’s basic political model – of being advantage on the battlefield. While clearly this The Year We Punched Back on the Assault on ignited by a military operation of Hezbollah and both Jewish and democratic – as morally network has been fundamentally challenged in Israel’s legitimacy). bankrupt and fundamentally leading to continued with unrelenting attacks on Israeli recent years due to regional events, we believe 23. This coordinated global effort to combat discrimination against Palestinians civilian population centers. In 2010, the groups that they still adhere to their goal through the delegitimization on every front resulted in within Israel; sympathetic to Hamas led major strategic following avenues3: operations against Israel, e.g. the Gaza Flotilla, that several meaningful successes included the ▪▪ Deliberately blurring the line between brought together its operatives with anti-Israel following (not by order of importance): criticism of Israel and the fundamental 2 See “Building a Political Firewall Against Israel’s Delegitimization.” activists primarily from Europe. ▪▪The creation of a world-wide pro-Israel delegitimization of Israel, allows the dele- Reut institute. March 2010. http://reut-institute.org/data/uploads/ PDFVer/20100310%20Delegitimacy%20Eng.pdf network, which is mobilized to confront the gitimizers to gain sympathy for their cause 3 The collapse of Syria and the involvement of Hizbollah in the fighting 4 In a book written by Iran’s leader Ayatollah Khamenei called there, the escalating tension between the Sunnis and the Shiites, “Palestine,” Khamenei calls for a long period of low-intensity warfare assault on Israel’s legitimacy. among the elite and general public, and to the rise of ISIS and other non-state actors, the massive immigration designed to make life impossible for Israeli Jews and excludes the build alliances with other disenfranchised to Europe, the strategic and visible coordination between Israel and two-state formula in any form. Khamenei counts on what he sees ▪▪Decline of ‘Mega Events’: As of the 2010 Egypt, the mutual interests of Israel and Saudi Arabia and the Gulf as “Israel fatigue” among the international community - See here: groups. States - are only few of the regional changes that have reshuffled http://irantruth.org/exclusive-first-translation-of-khameinis-new- Gaza Flotilla, all such subsequent ‘mega the priorities of members of the Moqawama Network. In fact, the book-on-the-destruction-of-america-israel/ events’ have been circumvented, and that ▪▪Sugarcoating its real goals within a tension between Hamas and its former patron Iran (and its proxy 5 Alon Paz, “The Rise of the Feral Adversary” War on the Rocks. Hizbollah), raises the question regarding the viability and relevance of November 13, 2014. http://www.washingtoninstitute.org/policy-anal- strategy has been effectively abandoned by discourse of ending the occupation, em- this network. ysis/view/the-rise-of-the-feral-adversary 14 The Assault on Israel’s Legitimacy 15

the delegitimization campaign as of 2012; to be seen whether they will significantly limit its Nations institutions has been a long-stand- more popular among Palestinians,9 and it growth.7 ing challenge, in recent years, additional seems that BDS has also influenced the ▪▪Neutralization of the Lawfare campaign international institutions are being targeted PA’s “diplomatic intifada;” against Israel: To date, no criminal com- ▪▪In the U.S., most public BDS attempts have for blatant anti-Israel activities. Examples plaints filed against Israeli officials or army failed to initiate the adoption of boycotts ▪▪While many public BDS efforts have failed, include ICC, ICJ, UNHRC and FIFA; personal have advanced to an indictment and sanctions against or and divestment there is a growing silent boycott of Israeli and many have been dismissed. All civil from Israel; ▪▪Expansion to new arenas – The delegit- products, academics, artists, and ath- proceedings filed against the State of Israel imization network constantly seeks to letes, although its actual economic effect is ▪▪A variety of effective tools were devel- and its officials in this regard have also re-invent itself through new methods and hard to measure; oped to engage bystanders and the ‘Long- been dismissed at an early stage of the arenas e.g. the drop of the “Mega Events” Tail,’ such as visits to Israel, marketing and ▪▪The anti-Israel network is global, with proceedings. Additionally, states (e.g. UK, method in favor of the legal and economic messaging platforms, and Israel education global ‘brands’ such as Israel Apartheid Spain and Belgium) have largely amended channels and the use of the rules of Socially programs; Week spanning the globe. It has expanded their Universal Jurisdiction laws so that Responsible Investments (SRI) are two from Europe to the U.S. and many other they are less prone to abuse by anti-Israeli ▪▪The pro-Israel community has greatly examples; locations worldwide, effectively present in individuals, lawyers, and organizations. improved its capacity to develop and ▪▪Targeting Jewish communities due to their many American cities and campuses, and Foreign courts have also recognized the distribute its messages, primarily in association with Israel – Diaspora Jewry has increasingly deepened its alliances with independence of the Israeli legal system and social media. and individual Jews are increasingly held major minority groups and social justice its ability to handle allegations and complex The Delegitimization Network: Steep responsible for the actions and policies of coalitions under the framework of matters. All of the above notwithstanding, Learning Curve and Resilience the State of Israel. This results in Diaspora continued success in this regard necessi- Jews as targets for criticism and, at times, tates continuous monitoring and high alert, 24. As mentioned above, the delegitimization even violence due to their perceived addressing and winning every single lawsuit network has faced growing opposition by connection to Israel and/or dual loyalty. attempt, given the risk of precedent-setting the pro-Israel network since 2010. In spite in the legal arena. of this opposition, and perhaps also due 25. Consequentially, by 2016, the delegitimiza- to it, the delegitimization movement has tion movement can also boast significant ▪▪Anti-BDS Legislation — After several become much more professional and better successes, particularly, and not by order of years in which lawfare was a key tool of the organized both tactically and strategically. importance: anti-Israel campaign, albeit without signifi- Thus, the delegitimization network has shown cant successes, over the past two years, ▪▪An unfavorable Zeitgeist around Israel itself to be adaptive and resilient in its ability the pro-Israel network has taken major legal persists in many places around the world, ‘intersectionality;’ to increase its agility and pace of innovation. initiatives, primarily in the U.S. and Spain.6 especially in large urban centers and on ▪▪ Some of the major changes are: college campuses. The BDS movement has gained support These initiatives are transforming the playing from a small number of Jews who are ▪▪Growing institutionalization and profes- field of the BDS movement, although it remains ▪▪BDS gains ground among Palestinians critical of Israeli policies and benefits sionalization of the movement, with an in the West Bank – In contrast to the from their participation. This participation 6 Two striking examples in this context are the following: emphasis on increased and more sophisti- • The US: Advancing anti-BDS legislation – since The New York common perception, BDS ideas originally includes the support and cooperation of State Senate became the first body to pass an anti-BDS bill cated usage of legal (e.g. Palestine Legal) emanated from Europe, and were initially some Israeli organizations who seek to (1/2014), a wave of anti-BDS legislation has swept across the US. and commercial tools within the corporate To date, 14 states have passed anti-BDS legislation (Alabama, received within the Palestinian Authority encourage external international pressure Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, world (e.g. Who Profits). This aspect also with mix reactions ranging from rejection New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and South Carolina) and the to affect the policies of the State of Israel; State of New York is under an executive order from the governor includes more robust organizations e.g., SJP to antagonism.8 Moreover, the Palestinian to not do business with companies that boycott Israel) and the and JVP and better training for activists; ▪▪The delegitimization movement has approval of President Obama of provisions making rejection of Israel Authority has been treating BDS activists as had a degree of success in singling out boycott a key objective in trade talks with EU; ▪▪Co-opting of international organizations trouble-makers and law-breakers and even • Spain: Turning the legal table on BDS – Spain has been a hub Israel among companies, sensitive to and of delegitimization efforts and BDS with, e.g., some 50 Spanish – While delegitimization of Israel in United arrested some of them. However, recent municipalities that had passed resolutions in recent years invested in Corporate Social Responsibility endorsing BDS, more than in any other European country. Yet recent polls suggest that BDS ideas are becoming successful legal offensive led by ACOM, a pro-Israeli nonprofit, BDS 7 There are plenty of local legislative motion, especially in the state 9 Poll taken by the Palestinian Center for Policy and Survey Research has been recently labeled discriminatory in a series of legal defeats. level in the US to block boycotts against Israel. These initiatives are 8 Although BDS portrays itself as an umbrella organization with dozens in 2015 reported that 86 percent of Palestinians in the West Bank Over the past year, pro-Israel activists have obtained 24 rulings, based on the Federal Anti-Boycott Regulations, which primarily deal of backers in Palestine, in practice most of the Palestinian civil society and Gaza Strip are in favor of an economic boycott against Israel legal opinions and injunctions against BDS in Spain, and as a result with withholding support from Israeli businesses. Read more: An- organizations that are listed as BDS supporters are marginal and (see here - http://www.pcpsr.org/sites/default/files/poll%2055%20 BDS motions have been rejected in a dozen Spanish municipalities. ti-Boycott Regulations Definition | Investopedia. usually consist of a very small operation. fulltext%20English%20final.pdf). 16 The Assault on Israel’s Legitimacy 17

(CSR)10, as well as among socially respon- tity to power, has given oppressed groups an Jewish communities to shared threats. lessons about Jewish-Muslim relations: sible investors (SRI)11. The development important shared language with which to fight 29. The anti-Israel network has been able to ▪▪A disproportionally large number of Euro- of these trends reflects a global trend, for greater recognition and inclusion. Together, frame the Palestinian struggle against Israel pean Muslims, even those born in Europe unconnected to Israel. However, the BDS identity politics and intersectionality enable as part of the struggle of other disempowered whose families originate from nations who movement has been quick to use this these social groups, to unite in solidarity in minorities, such as African-Americans, Latinos are not in conflict with Israel, demonstrate addressing shared, yet distinct experiences of trend, branding multinational corporations and the LGBTQ community. Having become a per- a higher degree of anti-Jewish and/or marginalization and discrimination, even if they as “profiteers from this apartheid.” manent feature of this loose “solidarity coalition” anti-Israel views compared to non-Muslims Notable BDS tactics include: public cam- have little in common. the anti-Israel network has largely succeeded in in Europe. paigns against MNCs, shareholder activism, 28. The Palestinian cause has been widely introducing as litmus tests for inclusion possess- advocacy directed at investors and asset ▪▪Much of the most aggressive anti-Israel adopted as a core and prominent threshold ing a single view toward the Israeli-Palestinian managers, and lobbying ethical committees activities are led by the infrastructure of for solidarity by many marginalized conflict as the basis for membership. in governments; radical Islam in Europe, namely by radical- groups. At the same time, Jewish identity 30. Some principles designed to address this ized mosques, individual imams, schools ▪▪Delegitimization has migrated into in America has undergone a significant emerging trend include the following: (‘madrasas’), and a variety of non-govern- , shift, from self-perception as a marginalized mainstream left-wing parties in Europe mental organizations, often associated with such as in England and in Sweden, and may and disenfranchised community, to one ▪▪Partnering with other minority communi- the Islamic Brotherhood ideology. be gaining traction among certain political increasingly seen by outsiders as a privileged ties based on shared values and common factions in the U.S. social group. This has significant implications: interests, such as on criminal justice 32. Therefore, it is important for the Jews are often excluded from coalitions reform, immigration rights or in fighting North-American Jewish community to follow Emerging Challenges of solidarity formed among members of against racism, bigotry and hate crimes. closely the development of radical Islam in Only authentic solidarity can feasibly serve the USA, and at the same time to engage 26. The challenges below were identified as oppressed groups, often along racial lines, and long-term fundamental legitimacy of Israel with the American Muslim community based issues of rising importance in opposing the Jewishness, understood within the privileged/ within these communities (as opposed to an on a joint commitment to address violent assault on Israel’s legitimacy. Each of these oppressed dichotomy, can be projected onto expectation of gains based on transactional extremism12 as well as Islamophobia. While a issues requires a comprehensive learning the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, confirming the relations). As noted above, in the aftermath priority should be given to national initiatives, process and extensive experimentations with basic categories by which Israel is portrayed of the 2016 Presidential election there is an organizations should consider prioritizing new activities. In this document, we present as the oppressor and the Palestinians as opportunity and necessity to re-engage in communal relations in cities and institutions these challenges, the basic dilemmas they the oppressed. In the aftermath of the 2016 such partnerships and reassess the state of characterized by legacy of strong anti-Israel raise, and a few insights about potential Presidential election in the United States, communal relations; activity with large Muslim population, such as action. Many of these topics will be explored in there will be opportunities to test whether Chicago, as well as within locations that have greater depth in future analysis. groups that feel threatened by an increasingly ▪▪Relationship-based approach and experienced a rise in anti-Muslim activity or hostile environment (e.g. Latino immigrants regaining credibility: Most successes violence. Intersectionality by the pro-Israel network were achieved 27. The rise of identity politics and intersection- by local leaders activating long-standing Anti-Normalization ality – The past several years are marked by relationships with relevant and significant is (عيبطت Anti-Normalization (tatbi’a .33 prominence of identity politics, which lead to stakeholders in their local communities. a concept originating in the Arab world, a climate that ascribes considerable signif- Thus, it is in the best interest of Israel which calls for a rejection of any political, icance and meaning to individual and group and the Jewish community to strive to economic, social, cultural, or educational identity. The related concept of intersectional- re-acquire credibility and regaining a level of ties with Israel that would transform the ity, which emphasizes the relationship of iden- respect among minorities based on ground relationship with Israel from abnormal to 10 CSR - Corporates today face an increasing expectation to have a work, commitment, and experience or greater degree of responsibility for the social and environmental knowledge of issues of common interest. normal, or which would allow for the integra- implication of their activities. This trend is expanding very quickly, as 13 indicated by the fact that all the founding documents of this issue tion of Israel into the Middle East. Moderate were written only after the year 2010. and Muslim Americans) will be more receptive European Experience and Engagement 12 Indeed, delegitimization can be seen as a natural outgrowth of 11 SRI - The investment approach which seeks to consider both finan- radicalization. See: “Anti-Semitism: A Pillar of Islamic Extremist cial return and social good is becoming more prevalent and guides to welcoming American Jews into coalitions with the Muslim Community Ideology” Anti-Defamation League Center on Extremism. 2015. the investment strategies of many funds. The popularity of demand http://www.adl.org/assets/pdf/combating-hate/Anti-Semitism-A-Pil- for ethics screening companies, which offer research and analysis of based on an understanding of vulnerability of 31. The European experience teaches few key lar-of-Islamic-Extremist-Ideology.pdf the ethical performance of corporates, is rising. 13 See Walid Salem, “The Anti-Normalization Discourse in the Context 18 The Assault on Israel’s Legitimacy 19

views in the Arab world, as represented by rejected even a limited surplus vote-sharing call of the Movement includes the right legitimacy. the Arab Peace Initiative, view normalization agreement with the Israeli left-wing party, of return for Palestinian refugees which 43. This dynamic is exacerbated by the global as a “carrot,” which will be used only once the Meretz. A new dynamic is observable and inevitably would eliminate the Jewish and trend of polarization of the political Israeli-Palestinian conflict is resolved. Others, increasing of cooperation between the global democratic state of Israel and, in practice, discourse, which has not bypassed Israel, such as the members of the Moqawama delegitimization movement and BDS with many of its leaders are “one-staters” and and seems to have reached new heights in Network (see above) reject any semblance of members of Balad. have been working to undermine the two-state recent years, on both sides of the political normalization with Israel (although they are solution (see Reut’s paper, “The BDS 36. The pro-Israel network needs to highlight spectrum. While Israel’s right-wing govern- willing to acknowledge Israel’s existence as Movement Promotes Delegitimization The inherent paradox in the BDS approach ment is often portrayed as ‘fascist’ and ‘racist’ a gloomy fact, and even to negotiate with it ”). – On the one hand, BDS delegitimizes any against Israel by its prominent political rivals, the left can be indirectly to ensure their basic interests). A Israeli-Palestinian cooperation as long as 40. Based on this understanding, the strategy of associated with ‘treason’ and ‘subversion’. In highly visible example of anti-normalization is Israel’s occupation of Palestinian lands the pro-Israel network has been based on this climate, the delegitimization movement is the unwillingness of Muslim and Arab athletes continues; on the other hand, without the demonstrable commitment of Israel’s effectively able to leverage genuine injustices to compete against Israelis in international Israeli-Palestinian cooperation and negotiation government to a two-state solution. Israel’s that require change to substantiate its competitions such as the Olympic Games. there is no possible way to bring about the ability to demonstrate a consistent and argument that the entire political model of Increasingly, anti-normalization has been end of occupation. Thus, BDS is agnostic credible commitment to ending the control Israel is corrupt. Its key claims: extended to include groups that either to the fate of the Palestinians and often over the Palestinian population has been advocate for Israel or even Israelis seeking to ▪▪The mistreatment of the indigenous contradicts their actual interests. indispensable for combating delegitimization. engage in peacebuilding or dialogue work. population – the Arab citizens of Israel – The working assumption that this shared is the 37. Viable and positive examples of cooperation The delegitimization movement frames the 34. The BDS movement has adopted the end-goal has served as the basis for attempts among Israeli Jewish and Israeli Arab NGOs, Arab citizens of Israel as a disenfranchised to build a broad coalition against BDS (the anti-normalization approach and strives to often including international engagement by indigenous population, which is being expand it to Europe and the U.S. – This logic, ‘broad tent’). Jewish communities, need to be amplified increasingly marginalized by legislation, gov- which the BDS movement officially endorsed and expanded to serve as a counterweight 41. On the ground, the breakdown of the peace ernment policies, and public discourse. This in 2007 and constitutes a key component of to the growing anti-normalization efforts of process and increasing doubts regarding framing naturally enhances the challenge Students for Justice in Palestine’s (SJP) strat- elected Israeli Arab political leaders. Invest- Israel’s commitment to it have fueled the posed by the trend of intersectionality; egy. It drives the adoption of the more extreme ment in these activities should deepen and expansion of the delegitimization move- tactics of the delegitimization campaign and ▪▪A crack-down on dissenting voices – extend thereby raising the cost of BDS. ment, particularly since 2014. Clearly, the undermines a-priori any attempt at dialogue Several Knesset legislative initiatives, such erosion of the support for Israel among liberal 15 and bridge-building, including of programs and as the NGO law , are framed as an organized The Breakdown of the Two-State Solution and progressive cohorts is impacted by the organizations sponsored by the international attack on the democratic nature of the 38. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict provides the growing criticism of Israel’s policies regarding community, such as OneVoice or IPCRI. At its state. main leverage for Israel’s fundamental dele- the Palestinians in the West Bank, the absence worst, anti-normalization can legitimizes the  gitimization. While the ideological framework of a peace-process, and the continuation of 44. While the trend of polarization of the harassment of Jews and provides the rationale for Israel’s delegitimization was solidified the settlements policy. In other words, the political discourse is not unique to Israel, for the exclusion of Jews from various at the first Durban Conference in 2001, its inability of governmental action to provide a the unique context of the delegitimization coalitions, even when they are not directly momentum has been boosted by reactions to political horizon for this conflict legitimizes, campaign makes its consequence for Israel related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Israeli military campaigns that have occurred energizes and emboldens non-governmental more dramatic. 35. Anti-normalization has become a dominant in 2009, 2012 and 2014, coupled with the lack grassroots action. 45. Notwithstanding, it is a conclusion and key within Israeli-Arab politics – Propagated of progress in the political process that would message of this report that a credible and predominantly by the Arab nationalist party in lead to a two-state solution, the outcome Eroding Perceptions of Israel’s Commit- consistent commitment to PPD, among Israel, Balad, the anti-normalization approach preferred by the mainstream international ment to Pluralism, Democracy and Peace others to the full integration and equality of was adopted by The Joint List14, when it community. 42. In recent years, the perception of Israel as Israel’s Arab citizens and to the rule of law and free speech are not only a moral imperative, of Israeli-Palestinian Peace-Building”, Palestine-Israel Journal, Vol 12, 39. Although BDS does not express explicit a peace-seeking, pluralistic and democratic no.1 2005. state (PPD) has eroded. The weakening but would also weaken the claims of Israel’s 14 The Joint List, composed of three Arab parties and one joint support for the so-called one-state solution Jewish-Arab party, was established in the lead-up to the 2015 to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the official perception of Israel’s PPD nature cannot elections after the electoral threshold was raised and presents itself 15 The law, which passed in July 2016, mandates special requirements as representing the majority the Arab citizens of Israel. be divorced from the assault on Israel’s for NGOs that get most of their funding from foreign governments. 20 The Assault on Israel’s Legitimacy 21

delegitimizers. 51. In light of the Israeli-Palestinian political almost exclusively by Western organizations, critical for getting a reliable indication of the deadlock, the popularity of Hamas in the West without real Palestinian backing. However, indirect business impact of BDS, measuring Palestinian Confrontational Diplomacy Bank and the eroding regional and international the emerging alliance between the PA and the discrete influencer categories of the 46. The common perception within the pro-Israel interest in the Palestinian issue – the adoption the delegitimization network – which has Zeitgeist and as an early warning for BDS community is that the assault on Israel’s of a defiant approach by the PA has become consequently gained access to the powers expansion; its political raison d’être. and authorities of a state in the diplomatic legitimacy is a sophisticated Palestinian ▪▪Identifying places prone to silent boycott arena – could prove to be a game changer for campaign. The core statement of BDS leaders 52. Moreover, 2017 marks 100 years since the and developing a global engagement Israel. Unless properly addressed, the new asserting that it was founded upon a call Balfour Declaration,16 70 years since the UN strategy to address tacit and/or latent form of confrontational diplomacy of the from the Palestinian civil society affirms this partition plan (see UN Resolution 181) and cases of boycott. PA could complicate many aspects of the misconception. 50 years since the “Naksa” (Arabic name BDS campaign and constitute a strategic 47. In practice, however, there are actually only for the defeat of the Arabs during the 1967 How Far Should We Take Anti-BDS surprise to Israel with meaningful national a handful of Palestinian leaders or activists Six-Day War) – all seen by the Palestinians Legislation? security implications. in the BDS movement — which remains an as important historical and symbolic bench- 58. Recent years have seen a surge in legislative almost entirely Western phenomenon. While marks that explain their gloomy geo-political The Silent Boycott efforts, especially in the U.S., against BDS negating Israel’s right to exist is common reality. activities. According to BDS supporters, the 55. BDS efforts only seldom end up in a public among Palestinians, the BDS campaign itself  pro-Israel legal offensive has been an increas- 53. There are several arenas hosting the current boycott or avoidance of doing business with – its strategy, practice, political agenda and ingly effective strategy, and has constituted a Palestinian “flirtation” with the delegitimiza- Israel as a punishment or protest. Addition- terminology – are generally alien to Palestin- significant challenge to the BDS movement in tion campaign: ally, BDS has also largely failed to hijack the ians in the West Bank and Gaza. the U.S.19 ▪▪Confrontational diplomacy and lawfare CSR and SRI agenda (see above) by singling 48. As can be expected from a state or state-like – The PA has been conducting a diplomatic out Israel.18 59. Free speech vs. discriminatory activ- actor, the commitment of the PA and PLO to and judicial confrontation of Israel in the ity? – Legislative initiatives in a number 56. The more common damage is caused by the the Two-State Solution has never been a moral international community. This manifests in of states have raised concerns regarding silent boycott – undeclared decisions by one (recognizing in effect Israel’s “right” to leveraging their membership in international their possible violation of free speech. organizations, companies and individuals exist), but rather a pragmatic one. In fact, the treaties and organizations (e.g. the Interna- Future legislation need to be developed with to refrain from doing business with Israel or PA seems to have internalized better than tional Criminal Court and UNESCO) in order careful consideration of this issue to avoid withhold cooperation and engagement with Israel the fact that its declared commitment the potential for rallying progressive groups in to attack Israel. Israeli entities or with entities that have ties to to the Two-State Solution earns it important coordinated opposition and “turning off” the ▪▪Calling for an expanded boycott of Israel – Israel due to ethical concerns that are associ- political and diplomatic points. long tail. Following a decision taken by the PA in 2008 ated with it, or the desire to avoid unnecessary 49. While actions taken by the PLO and the PA to boycott goods and services from the problems and criticism. An alarming possible The challenge of Targeted Boycotts for statehood - even when unilateral - should West Bank, it is has recently expanded its explanation of this trend is the potential 60. The targeted boycott effort against Israeli not be considered as delegitimization call for boycott to include Israeli companies internalization of the sentiment promoted by presence in the West Bank, and particularly (see Reut’s document “The Declaration of working in Israel proper as well.17 the delegitimization campaign – that Israel the settlements, is gaining momentum. Palestinian Statehood: An Unparalleled is too morally corrupt to engage with, at any 54. We warn that confrontational diplomacy This effort, exemplified by product labeling by Political Opportunity?”), neither the PLO nor level. the PA have abandoned their confrontational could very well constitute a turning point in the EU, is now increasingly embraced in other 57. Response principles to addressing the ‘silent approach towards Israel, even during the campaign to assault Israel’s legitimacy forms by a coalition of Israelis and Israel- – as demonstrated above, up until now the boycott’ include: negotiations. supporting self-proclaimed Zionist Jews, who delegitimization campaign has been executed ▪▪Developing a methodology to assess frame their activities as an effort to secure 50. Now, however, the Palestinian Authority 16 Only recently, the PA announced its efforts to prepare a legal the volume of the silent boycott – This is Israel’s future as a Jewish and democratic (PA), which has traditionally regarded BDS file against the UK over the 1917 Balfour Declaration, which the state. This trend may eventually affect many as a threat, is “flirting” with it through a new Palestinians see as the original sin that set the ground for the 18 Hardly any corporate has changed its business portfolio in Israel and establishment of the State of Israel, see here: http://www.jpost. only very few marginal investors publicly withdrew their business Jewish institutions. form of confrontational and defiant diplo- com/Arab-Israeli-Conflict/Palestinians-seeking-to-sue-Brit- from Israel or Israeli affiliated companies as a punitive measure or macy. This approach occasionally explicitly ain-over-Balfour-Declaration-462379 protest. Unilever, as an exception to the rule, moved in 2013 a snack 61. The uniqueness of this challenge emanates 17 See for example the PA ban to import product from five Israeli food plant from the West Bank to Tsfat, within the 1967 borders. undermines Israel’s legitimacy. food companies - http://www.timesofisrael.com/pa-bans-imports- Other companies such as Veolia and Orange deny the change in their from the difficulty to categorize it: from-5-israeli-companies/ business conduct in Israel is related to the boycott campaign. 19 See here in an Al-Jazzera report. 22 The Assault on Israel’s Legitimacy 23

▪▪On the one hand, while the delegitimiza- 67. These trends have resulted in the decline and a greater acceptance of, BDS activities. tion movement calls for a total boycott, it of Jewish communal cohesion and the 71. As a result of the above, a decreased occasionally supports targeted boycott increasing polarization of the American Jewish mobilization of American Jews for Israel as it tarnishes Israel’s reputation and is community in regard to Israel, which under- can be expected, and certainly a decrease in from the mines the political strength and efficacy of the easier to garner support around mainstream Jewish activism for Israel. In some long tail. BDS leaders have said openly that American Jewish community. The relationship cases, increased Jewish anti-Israel activism tactical needs often require carrying out a between internal Jewish communal cohesion is evident. selective boycott of settlement products as and the ability to respond effectively to the “the easiest way to rally support”—a mile- delegitimization challenge should be appro- The Response: Building stone on the path towards a comprehensive priately appraised, as this is key to the way in Adaptive Capacities boycott. Indeed, it is easy to make the case which the Jewish community functions as a that partial boycotts fuel the assault on network to combat delegitimization. Structural and Operational Response Israel’s legitimacy; The Erosion of Israel as a Unifying Force The Religious Gap Dividing U.S. and 72. The conundrum of the 20X question implies ▪▪On the other hand, the call for a targeted that a key challenge for the pro-Israel 64. Since Operation Protective Edge in Gaza in Israeli Jews boycott by Israelis and Jews is often network is to accelerate its learning curve 2014, a growing numbers of Jews have 68. U.S. Jewry is undergoing its deepest-ever driven by a genuine Zionist motivation in order to out-adapt the delegitimization become more critical of Israel as their identity crisis, in which the future role of representing a loss of trust by liberal network. Furthermore, the most important perception of Israel as pluralistic, peace-seek- Israel in Jewish identity looms large. The clash Zionists regarding the commitment of the investment must be made in improving its ing, and democratic (PPD) is eroding. is occurring as a result of several distinct current Israeli government to peace. Their adaptive capacities, and that such investment but related factors. One of them is Israel’s claim is that boycotting settlements will 65. This perception has been compounded by will provide for on-going capability to suc- religious establishment. help to secure Israel’s future as a Jewish frustration over the confrontations between cessfully meet this challenge. Naturally, such and democratic state and end Israeli control the Government of Israel and the Obama 69. Whereas U.S. Jewry is increasingly multi- capabilities will also bolster the ability of the over the Palestinians. Indeed, this targeted Administration, peaking in disputes surround- cultural and diverse in its religious practice, Jewish community and the State of Israel to act as well as labelling West Bank products, ing the Iran Deal and some Israeli policies. Israel is identified with a more rigid, statist confront the emerging challenges are perceived in the world as a well-inten- These issues have led to reactions, which Judaism. The dominant role of the Chief articulated above. tioned, legitimate, non-violent protest range from indifference to tacit and even Rabbinate is widening the gap with the diverse 73. Not more, better: The key message of this against Israeli policies aimed at “saving” explicit support for delegitimization activities. faces of American Judaism. These dynamics Strategic Framework is that the challenge Israel from itself. Paradoxically, a potentially warmer relationship are embodied, for example, in the tension of the pro-Israel network is how to become between the new administration in Washington around Women of the Wall and their fight for 62. Coupled with the expansion of settlements, smarter and more strategic in the use of and the Government of Israel may exacerbate attaining social and legal recognition for pray- the tendency of the Israeli government and existing resources rather than mobilizing more the challenges because of strongly held ing collectively at the Western Wall. Beyond pro-Israel groups to delegitimize “partial money and more people. In other words, the negative views about the administration by the emotional alienation this gap raises, a real boycotters” is often perceived as a sign that conclusion of this report is that the challenge many American Jews and American liberals and obstacle is created by the Israel’s Rabbinate’s Israel is not genuinely committed to the of the pro-Israel network is more ‘qualitative’ progressives in general. rejection of non-Orthodox streams of Judaism, two-state solution. than ‘quantitative’. 66. The Government of Israel seems to which comprise more than 70 percent of Amer- 63. The polarization around the issue of targeted 74. At the same time, our work points to a under-appreciate the collateral damage to ican Jews. The rigidity represented in Israel’s boycott is an indication of the lack of ethical number of key operational principles that Israel’s standing among Diaspora Jewish approach is an anathema in an American reality clarity necessary in order to stand united are essential for successfully defeating the communities created by changing perceptions in which more than half of Jews intermarry. against delegitimization by fostering diverse movement to delegitimize Israel. of Israel. The damage done by the erosion in coalitions. Compelling and constructive 70. The result is that many U.S. Jews, especially Israel’s standing has serious implications, alternatives to targeted boycott may be among non-Orthodox denominations, including in contributing to a growing internal Structural Investments: critically needed. identify less with Israel and are alienated split among Jewish communities and a more by the Jewish State. Thus, in essence Pro-Israel Network 2.0 growing rift between Jewish communities and The Decline of Jewish the dominant role of the Chief Rabbinate in Upgraded Capabilities in Intelligence the Government of Israel. Communal Cohesion Israel fuels indifference and tolerance toward, and Strategy 24 The Assault on Israel’s Legitimacy 25

75. Every successful operation in a dynamic This is complicated terrain because of the Israel and the BDS Movement. For example, areas that are not within the focus on Jewish setting requires an effective feedback loop need to balance freedom of speech while while there are a few organizations which attention, response is often based on a hand- among information-gathering and analysis, protecting the rights of users. While the specialize in campus activity, each brings to ful of activists who operate on a shoestring. strategizing, research, development and ex- pro-Israel network increasingly is active in the table different assets. Some organizations Supporting their work, should be based on the perimentation, and operations. This feedback this domain, much more can be done in the specialize in legal campaigns while others in following principles: loop happens when information gathering and following directions: the battle of ideas. Similarly, while some have ▪▪Strengthening pro-Israel organizations analysis work informs both activities on the connections with dozens of Jewish communi- that mobilize and coordinate a network ground and planning and strategy; planning ties around the world, others own a network of of ‘nodes’ e.g. Jewish Community Public and strategy should guide activities, as well as dozens of offices across the U.S. Affairs (JCPA) and its network of Jewish establish priorities for information gathering; 80. Thus, this report concludes that many actors Community Relations Council (JCRCs) in the and operations should provide feedback to the within the pro-Israel network should identify USA; Hillel, which is present in nearly five strategic arm and to the intelligence-gathering their unique added value in this struggle and hundred locations in the U.S. and globally; group. leverage it through their different efforts the Israel Action Network (IAN) that reaches 76. This system is currently lacking and often and increased collaboration. Such deliberate nearly 160 federations in the U.S.; or the does not exist for the pro-Israel network, specialization among the pro-Israel network is Jewish Congress (WJC) that represents and its creation is urgent and essential. essential for greater effectiveness. dozens of Jewish communities around the world. 77. The structure of the response should there- Supporting Small Communities and fore include three interrelated components: ▪▪Developing simple, flexible, and scalable ▪▪Using legal measures and enforcing Terms Niche Efforts platforms, tools and resources of infor- ▪▪Information gathering and analysis, of Service on social platforms to limit the 81. The delegitimization of Israel is a highly mation-gathering, analysis and research, which is then proliferation of harassment and incitement decentralized challenged, taking place in project management, collaboration and disseminated . This includes a mix against Jews and Israel small and large communities and across many learning that can be used by activists in to all potential of policy advocacy and industry engagement arenas. For example, there could be acts these small communities and niche arenas. users; with corporations such as Google, Facebook, of delegitimization in labor unions in South ▪▪Planning and and Twitter in a manner consistent with the Africa or among corporations in Greece. In Operational Principles strategy work, recommendations of the ADL Center for fact, due to its architecture as a network and focused on Technology and Society and its Anti-Cyberhate to its character as a social movement, acts Success Would be to Change the crafting rele- Working Group; of delegitimization against Israel can and do Unfavorable Zeitgeist vant principles ▪▪Targeted efforts to determine when and happen anywhere and in any field. Hence, the 83. The fundamental remedy to the assault for achieving success based on targeted whether top instigating organizations and decentralized architecture of the delegiti- on Israel’s legitimacy can only be achieved research. The purpose of this strategic work individuals employing techniques to harass mization movement requires a decentralized if the Zeitgeist with regard to Israel is is to inform and guide the activity of many and incite violence over the web and in response. changed. This outcome can only be the result diverse actors; social media or otherwise violate the law; 82. Consequently, it is essential to strengthen of a long-term, concentrated effort, whose ▪▪ Operations – activities on the ground should ▪▪‘Bottom-up efforts’ of crowd-sourcing the pro-Israel network in small communities effects accumulate over time. implement the strategies and use the to enhance the adaptive capacity of the and in niche areas. In places where a sizable 84. The effect of achieving this goal would be information that is gathered. The outcomes pro-Israel network. Jewish community resides, mostly in major that the fundamental legitimacy of Israel will of the activity, should in turn generate cities, of the U.S., London, Melbourne, Paris or not be challenged in the mainstream arena, evaluation, more planning and improvements Specialization Buenos Aires, there is often a robust response and the delegitimization will be marginalized and also direct intelligence efforts. 79. Specialization and division of labor: many to acts of anti-Semitism and delegitimization to a point where it is considered socially organizations which are part of the pro-Israel by a well-organized and well-funded Jewish inappropriate. Bolstering Cyber Presence community. In fact, on many U.S. campuses, network have unique assets that can become 85. Changing the Zeitgeist is an elusive 78. The Internet is a crucial arena for the effort the pro-Israel community is much better the foundation for a distinct contribution to objective where the whole is larger than the to delegitimize Israel, and is equally import- funded and even bigger than the anti-Israel the struggle against the delegitimization of sum of its parts. The reason is that, while ant as a field to counter delegitimization. one. However, in smaller communities or in 26 The Assault on Israel’s Legitimacy 27

circumventing acts of delegitimization is different constituencies can lead not only to Israel, who are often also of similar outlooks. government. Consequently, they are not only important, even multiple successes may not a waste of resources but also to the coun- Hence, while the pro-Israel community must be spreading their resources thin on a much larger result in changing the Zeitgeist. Paradoxically, terproductive outcome of further growth of united in this fight, this unity does not require group of organizations and individuals, but also high profile fights or high-visibility actions the delegitimization movement. For example, uniformity of opinions. In fact, it benefits alienating key players on the progressive and against BDS motions or the BDS Movement a heavy-handed approach toward soft critics from its diversity and even from the deep liberal side of the pro-Israel community. may even bolster BDS. may actually drive them away and closer to the disagreements among it, which are required for 94. Furthermore, it should be noted that the anti-Israel camp, rather then bring them closer effective engagement with the long tail and 86. In fact, this report concludes that changing breakthrough of the campaign to delegiti- to Israel. for achieving success. the Zeitgeist requires a segmented mize Israel occurred when it embraced its response along the different constituencies 92. However, even a broad tent has limits, and own ‘broad tent’ approach. The instigators of of the Long Tail. therefore establishing red lines with regards that movement have been willing to overlook to the discourse on Israel is also essential: ideological differences and to collaborate tac- Segmented Response along the Long Tail tically against Israel across a broad spectrum ▪▪On the left, the red lines need to distin- of opinions, and even with self-proclaimed 87. Confronting the delegitimization campaign guish between legitimate criticism and Zionists and Israelis who are ‘just’ critical of requires the pro-Israel network to mindfully acts of delegitimization. Such a slippage Israeli policies. tailor appropriate responses and/or engage- can occur when criticism is consistently ment strategies for each section of the Long and repeatedly one-sided, not nuanced and 95. The confluence of the delegitimizers’ ‘open Tail i.e. toward the instigators, harsh critics, without context, for example, when placing tent’ approach with Israel’s ‘narrow tent’ the soft critics and the bystanders: all the blame for the current state of the approach is leading to Israel’s camp being ▪▪The instigators must be singled out from the political process with the Palestinians on outnumbered. General Operating Principles: Narrow the Israel. This is particularly sensitive since other groups, and handled uncompromis- 96. Finally, the unique role of Jewish peoplehood Definition and Broaden the Tent such criticism can quickly feed into the ingly, publicly or covertly as appropriate; organizations must be acknowledged: Some delegitimization campaign; ▪▪Harsh critics should be intellectually 90. A segmented response along the long tail organizations within the Jewish community, engaged and challenged; requires narrowing the definition of delegiti- ▪▪On the right, the red lines also need to primarily Federations, Hillel centers, JCRCs mization. Such a narrow and focused definition distinguish between legitimate criticism and JCCs, were established on the logic ▪▪Soft critics – which represent the largest – establishing delegitimization as the singular of Israel and delegitimization. In this of peoplehood with the aim of serving the group within the Long Tail – should also be negation of the right of the State of Israel to case, when legitimate criticism is framed entire Jewish community across its diversity. addressed through sophisticated engage- exist and of the right of the Jewish People to as an act of delegitimization and its Specifically for such organizations, a narrow ment strategies; self-determination – is crucial for success. conveyers as delegitimizers, the pro-Israel definition of delegitimization that focuses on ▪▪Bystanders should first be approached and Such a definition allows for both unity among community is fragmented and drawn into the delegitimizers is essential for their ability engaged through softer tools to be ‘won the pro-Israel network, as well as focus on the infighting. In fact, liberal Zionist Jewish to serve their mission, and a broad definition over’ or, at least, be inoculated from the true instigators and the deployment of distinct organizations are the most effective tools compromises it. anti-Israel propaganda. efforts for each of the groups along the against delegitimization among liberal Legitimacy Surplus 88. The crucial ‘battle ground’ is the hearts and Long Tail, thus allowing for driving the wedge progressive circles. Moreover, efforts to minds of the soft critics and bystanders. between instigators and other groups. combat delegitimization will fail if they are 97. Creating a legitimacy surplus – alongside the Their gravitation away from the vision of 91. Broadening the tent: a diverse pro-Israel accompanied by anti-Muslim sentiments efforts to circumvent delegitimization, a clear delegitimization would mean that this dele- network is essential for dealing with the that push soft critics and bystanders toward pro-active and positive campaign aimed at gitimization movement remains marginal diverse base of support of the delegitimiza- the delegitimization movement” strengthening the legitimacy of Israel is vital and ineffective. In other words, success in tion campaign. In fact, it requires engagement 93. In contrast, the narrow tent approach, which for changing the Zeitgeist. This includes: changing the Zeitgeist depends upon shifting with a wide spectrum of views through a broadens the definition of delegitimization ▪▪Positive messaging and branding – It is them toward Israel’s favor, and driving a wedge variety of approaches and tools by a diverse and excludes progressive groups, is necessary to reframe the context through between them and true delegitimizers. pro-Israel community. For example, liberal and counter-productive. Some pro-Israel groups which people hear about Israel so as to 89. Failure to understand this model and the need progressive pro-Israel groups are probably expand the definition of delegitimization to in- associate it with ‘positive’ values, such as for tailored and segmented responses for the most effective in engaging with soft critics of clude criticism of Israel and even of the Israeli innovation, creativity, and its contribution to 28 The Assault on Israel’s Legitimacy 29

humanity. pro-Israel network double-down on the fight was the heavy-handed response of pro-Israeli 104. Since the delegitimization movement is against the delegitimization in other loca- groups that generated mainstream media founded on intellectual arguments that ▪▪Israel engagement programs – While the coverage for marginal BDS events. challenges of Israel engagement have tions, particularly in Europe, South Africa, challenge the foundations of Zionism, and Latin America. The logic here is three-fold: there is a need to intellectually match increased due to the ongoing assault on 102. Early warning and pre-emption of exper- first, there are sizable Jewish communities those arguments in an equally appealing Israel, this also created an opportunity to iments - when Israel’s delegitimizers try there, which require protection. Second, these There is reconnect across the dividing lines within new methods or new arenas and locations and sophisticated manner. nations are important for Israel. Third, there therefore a need for institutions that are the Jewish community. for various activities and campaigns it is is a tremendous learning opportunity in these dedicated to and specialize in the waging ▪▪Tikkun Olam projects: Beyond their intrinsic places, where the fights are much fiercer and of this battle of ideas, specifically within A heavy-handed response of pro-Israeli value for humanity, projects of social justice on much worse terms compared to the U.S. progressive discourse. Such institutions that contribute to humanity and build the Similar logic applies to smaller arenas where groups to a BDS panel that was to be held should develop specialized capabilities to good standing of Israel and the Jewish delegitimization persists. For example, it is at the Brooklyn College, brought Mayor engage with anti-Israel arguments made by people are essential for mobilizing the important to counter-balance the over-con- Bloomberg – a supporter of Israel – to de- opinion leaders, in prominent media outlets, pro-Israel movement and for engaging with centration on American campuses with a fend the college’s decision to co-sponsor the as well as within specific niches such as the Long Tail and with the Bystanders. greater allocation of resources and attention event, on the grounds of free speech. It was labor unions, professional associations or to SRI, churches, and labor unions. the reaction to the event that generated the churches. Doubling Down on Europe and Other media exposure for this marginal event. Crucial Places Marginalizing Delegitimizers The Long Tail and the Bystanders Are the 98. While this report has a significant emphasis and Instigators True Battleground important to decisively counter them - so on the U.S., it is important to note that the 100. Expose the true colors of the delegitimiz- they are not replicated elsewhere. It is often 105. The battleground between Israel and ers to drive a wedge between them and more effective to focus on new instances its allies, and the delegitimizers is over the rest of the long tail: While intending to substantially engaging with those In Toronto, the local Federation’s focus has of delegitimization and on ‘experiments’ of express opposition to Israeli policies, many of Soft Critics. been on increasing the quantity and quality methods, rather than on routine the Harsh Critics, often unwittingly, engage of Israel engagement. The Israel Engage- manifestations. 106. Mobilizing this constituency to stand alongside anti-Zionists in acts of delegiti- ment Committee (IEC), with the cooperation against delegitimization requires substan- mization such as supporting BDS. However, Harsh Critics: Winning the Battle of Ideas of the Jewish Agency’s Makom Unit, de- tively responding to their concerns. when delegitimization was narrowly defined through Thought Leadership and veloped a pioneering engagement program (as negating Israel’s right to exist and the Specialized Research based on the “hugging and wrestling ap- right of the Jewish people to self-determina- In 2012, Brooklyn’s Park Slope Food Co-Op proach” – “hugging” Israel and celebrating 103. The Mission: Achieve “Conceptual Superior- tion), and when the true colors of BDS were has voted down a referendum to join the its accomplishments, while “wrestling” with ity”20 over the delegitimization movement exposed, even notable Harsh Critics were international BDS movement. The strategy its imperfections. Many educators stated that – transforming the pro-Israel network into a quick to denounce BDS for being too radical. of local pro-Israel groups to fight it was the principle of separating education from significant and sustained adaptive entity will engaging Jewish liberal groups and notable advocacy receives a stronger welcome from 101. At the same time, high-visibility response over time grant the network with a concep- individuals to condemn BDS. young Jews. by the pro-Israel side can be counterpro- tual superiority. Being conceptually superior ductive, by serving the anti-Israel network means that the tools and resources utilized and amplifying its successes. Many times, it challenge of the delegitimization of Israel in the service of the pro-Israel objectives 107. Building personal relationships.21 The is much more acute across Europe and in will be more relevant than the tools and pro-Israel movement has developed a diverse resources of the delegitimization movement. South Africa. Meanwhile, in recent years the Exposing the true colors of the BDS move- tool-kit and specialized organizations for en- Achieving this goal will necessitate defined majority of resources and attention has been ment generated a series of setbacks to BDS. gaging various constituencies that comprise and clear goals and a richer understanding focused just within the U.S., and particularly on This exposure brought Norman Finkelstein of the strategic environment and the trends 21 These conclusions were drawn based on a segmentation study and campuses. and Noam Chomsky, individuals BDSers analysis that was co-funded by the Brand Israel Group (BIG) and the which design it. Conference of Presidents. This research suggests that the humanity 99. While this issue was not covered in depth in often quote, to publicly denounce the tactics of the Israeli people is what resonates strongest with most and goals of the movement. Americans. The study demonstrated that the key is to emphasize this report, we generally recommend that the 20 Based on Reut’s concept Strategic Superiority in National Security the creative, diverse, indomitable, moral and personable nature of http://reut-institute.org/en/Publication.aspx?PublicationId=1404 the Israelis. 30 The Assault on Israel’s Legitimacy 31

the ‘Long Tail,’ such as academics, student In Conclusion: Greater Focus on Annex: List of Experts leaders, journalists or religious leaders. This Adaptive Capacities Alon, Kfir Elections Officer, Israeli Delegation to Goshen, Zohar (Prof.) Professor of Law, has been done through a variety of programs the UN Columbia Law School such as Israel visits, educational initiatives, 110. Our goal was to create a Strategic messaging and marketing highlighting Israel’s Framework against the delegitimization of Anshen, S. Mark Greenblatt, Jonathan CEO, National Director, Israel that would serve the entire field. Our Anti-Defamation League humanistic facets, and alternative political Armony, Lisa Executive Director, Hillel Foundation success will be determined by the extent to engagement opportunities (invest vs. of Orange County, Rose Project of JFFS Har-Zvi, Shai (Dr.) Director of Inteligence, which this report will actually serve others divest). This portfolio is crucially significant The Ministry of Strategic Affairs Aronoff, Gideon Chief Executive Director, Ameinu and should be a site for further innovation and be viewed as valuable to them. We look Heller Pinto, Susan Associate Director Inter- and expansion. forward to discussing it over the coming few Baime, Jacob Executive Director, Israel on national Affairs and Director of Middle Eastern months. Campus Coalition 108. Developing new platforms and programs Affairs, Anti-Defamation League for substantive engagement of the Long 111. As mentioned, this report is based on Balanson, Naftali Chief of Staff, NGO Monitor months of extensive fieldwork, research, Herzog, Micheal (Brig. Gen. Res.) Fellow, Tail. The availability and ease with which an Bell, Ari Middle Eastern Affairs Analyst, Israel and many hours of strategy-crafting. None- The Jewish People Policy Institute. individual can get involved in BDS or anti-nor- office, Anti-Defamation League malization, combined with the open-tent theless, key aspects of the delegitimization Hollander Yossi The Israeli Institute for approach of the delegitimization campaign and BDS challenges remain only shallowly Bob, Kenneth President, Ameinu Economic Planning explored, and require further research and (see above) has led to the impressive growth Brisk, Seth San Francisco Bay Area Regional Jacobson, Kenneth Deputy National Director, investigation, and multiple issues and areas of the BDS movement in the U.S. particularly Director, Anti-Defamation League Anti-Defamation League among liberal and progressive circles.22 The would benefit from additional in-depth Burdett, Stacy Director Director of Government pro-Israel network’s challenge is to create focused work, which we and others should Jacobson, Judith (Dr.) Associate Professor of Relations, Advocacy & Community Engagement, competitively appealing programs and conduct in the months to come. Clinical Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman Anti-Defamation League School of Public Health alternatives for political action that also 112. The ‘20x Question’ is indeed frustrating. Cannon, Benjy President, J Street U focus on the contested issues regarding But one aspect of it is encouraging: over Kedar, Rachel Education Director, Israel office, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and initiatives the past six years the pro-Israel community Catarivas, Dan Director, Division of Foreign Trade Anti-Defamation League which provide meaningful avenues to has shown remarkable mobilization and & International Relations FarKoren, Dalia Senior Researcher and promote coexistence and societal enhance- growth as it stood up to the challenge of the Chamovitz, Max Deputy Managing Director Israel Assistance to the Head of ITIC ment. delegitimization of Israel. It has gravitated Action NetworkDabschek, David. CEO, GIANT Kuperwasser,Yossi (Brig. Gen. Res.) Senior 109. Invest in Bystanders and broaden the from a being a neglect to a condition of Innovation, Adjunct Professor Columbia University Researcher, Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs conversation – For those who don’t have overflowing resources and abundance of Dayan, Dani Consul General, Consulate General their mind set on Israel yet, it is important to talent. Lauter, Deborah Senior Vice President, Policy and of Israel in New York Dubois-Granot, Gaby. Missions share positive stories and allow an intermedi- Programs, Anti-Defamation League 113. Now the challenge is qualitative and not Coordinator, Israel office, Anti-Defamation League ate connection with Israelis. It is inadvisable quantitative: to leverage this investment Lerner, Rachel Senior Vice President Community to allow the conflict to define Israel, and a into a global network that effectively Erlich, Reuven (Dr. Colonel Res.) Head of ITIC Relations, J Street “pre-emptive” strategy aiming at showcasing achieves the desired outcome: to marginalize Tuk, Noa Israel Program Director, Brooklyn Lerner, Shaya Assistant Director Middle Eastern Israel’s side in the conflict among the delegitimization in the years to come. College Hillel Affairs, Anti-Defamation League Bystanders, is unlikely to be effective. Only Felson, Ethan J. Executive Director, once the positive emotional connection has Levin, Scott Mountain States Regional Director, Israel Action Network been set, then “Hasbarah” tactics may be Anti-Defamation League effective. Gilboord, Noam Director of Community Strategy, Lieberman, Michael Washington Counsel Israel Action Network Director, Civil Rights Policy Planning, Gavrieli Tzahi Deputy Director General, Anti-Defamation League the Ministry of Strategic Affairs 22 These conclusions are based on the work of the U.S. Segmentation Luxembourg, Assaf CEO, crowdmii Study of Applied Marketing Innovation (Fern Oppenheim, prepared for the Conference of Presidents, 2011) and the Mellman Group Focus Gomes de Mesquita, Sonia Chief Program Malka, Tina Associate Director of Israel Group Analysis (prepared for the IAN, 2014). Officer, World Jewish Congress Education, Hillel International 32 The Assault on Israel’s Legitimacy 33

Maniv, Omri Correspondent, Channel 10 BDS Marcus, Prof. Ken President and General Counsel Sadeh, Shahar Director Faculty Engagement The Louis D. Brandeis Center for Human Rights Initiative, Jewish Community Relations Council of Under Law New York Marks, Rolene Rolene Marks Consulting Samuels, Moshe Bnei Jeshurun Maslia, Adam Deputy Director, Israel on Campus Sandmel, David Director of Interfaith Affairs, Coalition Anti-Defamation League May, D. Clifford Founder and President, Founda- Schaefer, Yoav Director, Avi Schaefer Foundation tion for Defense of Democracies Schanzer, Jonathan PhD. Vice President, Miller, Michael S. Executive Vice President, CEO, Research, Foundation for Defense of Democracies Jewish Community Relations Council of New York Schulman, Julia Director of Special Projects, Nakash, Itai Policy Manager, Division of Foreign Foundation for Defense of Democracies Trade & International Relations Segal, Oren Director, Center on Extremism, Neuer, Etzion Deputy Director, New York Regional Anti-Defamation League Office, Anti-Defamation League Sergon, Amir Representative of Jewish Agency Nuriel, Carole Director, Israel office, and Hillel Campus Anti-Defamation League, Israel Shayshon, Eran Associate Director, Ofek, Amir National Research Center, Ministry of APCO Worldwide Foreign Affairs Sigan, Simcha Director, Trends. Palast, Geri Executive Director, Israel Action Spar, Sonia Director, Latin American Affairs, Network Anti-Defamation League. Patir, Yael Director, J Street Israel. Srulevitch, Andrew Assistant Director of Plitman, Jacob Deputy Director, J Street U. International Affairs and Director of European Affairs, Anti-Defamation League. Preisler, Dana Researcher, The Dado Center for Interdisciplinary Military Studies Vaknin-Gil, Sima Director General, Ministry of Strategic Affairs Ram, Igal Director, Firewall Israel, The Reut Group Waren, David Vice President Education and Reinstein, Mindy Deputy Director of Government Regional Operations, Anti-Defamation League Relations, Advocacy & Community Engagementy Yotam Goren Israeli delegation to the UN Reis, Harry Special Assistant to the Director and CEO, Anti-Defamation League Zeligman, Hila Spokesperson, Israel office, Anti-Defamation League Reisner, Daniel Partner, Herzog Fox and Neeman. Ziegler, Zvi (Prof. em.) Israel Institute of Reuveni, Itai Israel Desk, NGO Monitor Technology - Technion Roet, David Deputy Ambassador, Israeli Delegation to the UN Rosen, Ehud Senior Researcher, Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs Robin Stoller, Kim Berlin Institute for Combating Anti-Defamation League 605 Third Avenue, New York, NY 10158-3560 www.adl.org ©2017 Anti-Defamation League