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Zionism Overview

a worldwide Jewish movement that resulted in the establishment and development of the state of Israel and that now supports the state of Israel as a Jewish homeland. Zionism is a political movement dedicated to establishing and supporting a national homeland for Jews in Palestine, now primarily focused on the development of the modern state of Israel.

It advocates for the return of Jews to Palestine from the Diaspora and supports the belief that Jews should have their own nation, embodying Jewish nationalism.

Historical Context and Opposition

Zionism gained substantial support among Jews and others during the early 20th century. The envisioned nation was established in the late 1940s with the creation of the state of Israel. However, Zionism remains opposed by most Arabs in the context of the Arab-Israeli conflict.

Recent Developments

Two years following a violent Hamas attack on Israel, Palestinian supporters disrupted a commemoration at Pomona College, declaring,

“Zionism is a death cult that must be dealt with accordingly.”

When British authorities exclude peaceful supporters of an Israeli team rather than confronting those posing threats, it perpetuates tensions Zionism aimed to resolve.

In 2017, the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) shifted from their founders’ strong socialist Zionist stance, endorsing the BDS movement amid chants of

“From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free.”

Summary: Zionism, a Jewish nationalist movement foundational to Israel’s statehood, remains a deeply polarizing issue, entwined with ongoing regional conflicts and contemporary political debates.

Dictionary.com — 2025-11-03