BDS beat down.

AuthorDanon, Danny
PositionWORLD WATCHER - Boycott-divest-sanctions movement against Israel

"Boycott activists constantly are attempting to use the legal system to stop governments from trading with Israel companies from doing business with the Jewish state, universities from engaging in educational projects; and medical personnel from performing research with Israeli counterparts."

THE BOYCOTT DIVEST SANCTIONS movement is the standard bearer of modern anti-Semitism, and the battle against it is one of the most important battles the State of Israel is fighting in the international arena. Pro-BDS activists constantly are trying to expand their activities in neighborhoods, with small and large businesses, and especially on campuses-looking for opportunities to shame anyone who supports or cooperates with Israel.

This movement is based on the invalid claims of apartheid, discrimination, and racism-and Israel's opposition pushes those lies vociferously. We need to do better at educating the public, employing all means at our disposal to beat this scourge. Throughout the U.S. and Europe, many people support Israel, but often have trouble dealing with the harsh and aggressive activities of the BDS. Among those are individuals who may not have the knowledge or tools to respond properly to their attackers. While the BDS movement may not have as many supporters as its claims, the noise it makes and the commotion it causes are perfect fodder for today's brand of media coverage. The provocative and, at times, violent nature of its activities are good for ratings. The noise travels on social networks, campuses, and anywhere it turns.

Because of the scope of its reach, we need to do a better job of providing supporters of Israel-Jews and non-Jews, students on college campuses, and experienced professionals-all possible tools and support so they openly can confront the BDS and its advocates with facts. To oppose BDS properly and motivate others to stand up for Israel, every confrontation and every victory is significant.

To be clear, BDS is not impacting Israel's economy, nor is it slowing the rate of research and development in areas where Israel is a world leader.

What it does, however, is imbue hate and sedition for Israel over the long term-to poison future generations on the Jewish state concerning Palestine and other matters. Similar to the efforts within UNESCO to erase any Jewish history or claim to Israel, which is meant to impact negatively Israel's position several generations down the line as history is rewritten for young minds...

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