Beinart at Tel Aviv University

Since 2012, when Peter Beinart wrote The Crisis of Zionism, he has been one of the primary flashpoints for Jews and Israel. The book presciently warned of a growing schism within the Jewish people, one that was particularly but not only generational.

Eight years later, Beinart wrote a seminal article in Jewish Currents, which had become the primary organ of Jewish anti-Zionism.  He had lost patience with Zionism and concluded that a “Jewish state” was inherently incompatible with the value of equality.  I – and many others – identified with his values but not his conclusions.  At the time I wrote a response that congratulated him for recognizing a new paradigm was needed but criticizing him for abandoning the Jewish state which I believed – and still believe – can provide equality for all its inhabitants.

As many reading this are already well aware, Beinart went to Israel this week to speak at Tel Aviv University.  I was glad when I heard of it, since I am fundamentally against cultural boycotts precisely because their aim is to prevent speech.  BDS leadership heavily criticized Beinart for “breaking” their boycott of Israeli institutions.  Sadly, Beinart recanted, apologized, and pled guilty to “undermining a collective effort against oppression.”

I am glad he went to Israel and spoke – and regret that he recanted.  His point of view needs to be heard by Israeli Jews. Ultimately, they must hear his message – and those who try to prevent that in the name of solidarity are making the slog that much more difficult.  It is the more regrettable as Beinart is one of the most articulate Jewish spokespersons for a recognition of Israeli culpability in the Gaza War – something Israelis need to hear. Those who try to prevent that communication are likewise foes of any eventual reconciliation.