Why do americans have to clarify themselves as not anti semitic before they can question Israeli situation?

Question

An apology or a method of self defense?

Answer 1

politics...

If you criticize Israel, you will be labeled anti-semitic or pro-islamic.

If you praise Israel, you will be labeled pro-semitic or anti-islamic.

Answer 2

Israel is our best ally, and many highly placed Americans have close ties or family who live there. Many of those same Americans were deeply affected by what happened in Germany in WW2, and the delay in the Allies in taking actions to stop it.(Israel was created, in part, to address the Holocaust and give Jews a safe homeland.)

Israel also figures heavily in the Bible and many Americans feel a kinship with the area because so much of the United States is of Judeo-Christian belief.

I think that all of those things, along with the fact that Israel is one of the few countries who welcomed US participation in the Middle East, makes those who are sensitive feel as if they are being attacked rather than questioned.

I am not saying the position is right, because I don't believe it is. I am saying that I understand the reaction.

Answer 3

Because jews are too afraid another hitler will come along. they try to gang up on anti-Semites before they become outspoken.
Its best not to clarify which way you personally are. a question is a question no matter who you are.

Answer 4

I wasn't aware that they had to. Nor was I aware that dissenting with Israel was anti-semetic. So is dissenting with America anti-American than?

Answer 5

Because of religion.
Fueled by everyone wanting control of the same limited resources.
It's always about religion.

Answer 6

Criticism of Israel is de facto anti-Semitism.

Sorry, you lose!