This study explores the historical and contemporary dimensions of antisemitism in the Arabic-speaking world, tracing its evolution and global implications. It highlights the interplay of socio-cultural, religious, and political factors that have perpetuated antisemitic ideologies and examines their manifestations across state policies, religious institutions, extremist organizations, and digital platforms.
Key arguments include:
- Challenging Historical Assumptions: The paper argues against the longstanding assumption that antisemitism in the Arabic-speaking sphere emerged solely due to the rise of Nazi Germany. It demonstrates that this misconception distanced the region from antisemitism by framing it as a Western invention. While Western influences played a significant role, the study reveals that antisemitism has deep roots in the social and cultural systems of Arabic-speaking communities, warranting more thorough scholarly attention.
- Framing the "Arabic-Speaking Sphere": The paper deliberately uses the term "Arabic-Speaking Sphere" rather than "Muslim countries" to emphasize that antisemitism is not confined to a single religion in the Middle East. This linguistic framework highlights how antisemitism manifests across Arabic, whether in classical or dialectal forms, transcending religious boundaries and reflecting broader cultural and social dynamics.
- Historical Context: Antisemitism in the Arabic-speaking world has origins in pre-1948 socio-religious dynamics, which were later intensified by the creation of Israel, Nazi propaganda, and Soviet-era anti-Zionist narratives. These historical forces transformed antisemitism into a political and nationalistic phenomenon.
- Contemporary Drivers: Radical Islamist groups like Hezbollah, Hamas, and ISIS, alongside state actors such as Iran, employ antisemitic rhetoric to unify supporters and justify militant agendas. Social media has amplified the spread of antisemitic hate speech globally, particularly after events such as the October 7 Hamas attacks.
- Overlooked Dimensions: Christian antisemitism in the Arabic-speaking world, often overshadowed by Muslim antisemitism, reflects theological and political narratives that contribute to the broader antisemitic landscape.
- Global and Regional Implications: The resurgence of antisemitism has profound consequences for global security, exacerbating conflicts, fostering radicalization, and straining intercommunal relations, particularly in the wake of international migration and geopolitical tensions.
To combat antisemitism, this study recommends:
- Educational Reforms: Integrating Holocaust education and critical historical analysis into curricula to challenge antisemitic narratives.
- Policy Measures: Strengthening regulatory frameworks to combat online hate speech and enhance accountability for disseminators of antisemitic content.
- Interfaith Dialogue: Promoting collaborative efforts among Jewish, Muslim, and Christian leaders and grassroots to foster mutual understanding and counteract prejudices.
- International Collaboration: Leveraging global partnerships to address antisemitism as a shared human rights challenge.