When you constantly hear that Israelis are “evil,” “genocidal,” or uniquely monstrous, it doesn’t just stay as political criticism. That language seeps into how people see Jews more broadly—whether intended or not. Words shape perception, and perception shapes behaviour.
People like to insist there’s a clean line between criticising Israel and rising antisemitism. In theory, maybe. But in reality, when an entire country is demonised in absolute terms, it creates a climate where hostility spills over—online, on the streets, and in everyday interactions.
What’s frustrating is how few are willing to admit this link.