SNP and Scottish Greens Stir Controversy with Motion Calling the IDF a Terrorist Group
What the motion actually says
According to the motion, the British Government is “terrified to show anything but utter compliance and subservience to the Israeli government.” It goes further, decrying the Israeli Defence Force (IDF) and calling for it to be proscribed as a terrorist organisation in the UK.
Is this antisemitic?
Critics point out that the claim that a Jewish state wields outsized influence in domestic politics echoes an age‑old trope. They argue it violates the International (IHRA) Definition of Antisemitism, which seeks to differentiate legitimate criticism of Israel from hateful stereotypes.
How the parties differ
- Scottish Greens:
They refuse to adopt the IHRA definition, insisting they are committed to fighting anti‑Jewish racism, but not bound by that particular framework.
- SNP:
The party has embraced the IHRA definition and says it will act against any member who promotes views that cross the line.
Who signed the motion?
- Strategy: SNP MSPs – Stephanie Callaghan, Ben Macpherson, Paul McLennan, Stuart McMillan, David Torrance, Evelyn Tweed.
- Strategy: Scottish Green MSPs – Maggie Chapman, Ross Greer, Mark Ruskell, and co‑leader Patrick Harvie.
Reaction from anti‑antisemitism advocates
The Campaign Against Antisemitism (CAA) released a statement saying the motion’s suggestion “alludes to an age‑old trope and breaches the International definition.” They called for official scrutiny and a stricter stance against the motion’s rhetoric.
Will the SNP actually take action?
The motion has raised the question: “Will the SNP now step in and address its own MSPs who signed this controversy‑laden record?” Stakeholders await the party’s decision, hoping it aligns with its own commitment to anti‑discrimination principles.
