UK Greens’ Zionism motion draws Israeli condemnation

The Green Party of England and Wales has adopted a conference motion defining Zionism as a form of racism, prompting condemnation from Israel’s government, President Isaac Herzog, opposition leader Yair Lapid and British Jewish groups.

The motion passed 1,022 to 813. The party said its definition addressed Zionism as a political project, rather than people’s religious or ethnic backgrounds.

The resolution reaffirmed support for Palestinian liberation, the right of return, Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions, and a full arms embargo on Israel. It also backed a single democratic state throughout historic Palestine.

Israel’s Foreign Ministry said the policy gave “legitimacy to terrorism” and urged other British parties to condemn it. Herzog called the motion “a disgrace and a shame”. Lapid said the Green Party was racist.

The Movement for Progressive Judaism said the party had made antisemitism policy. Those characterisations were reported alongside the party’s stated position; the source did not independently assess the resolution’s wording.

Green co-deputy leader Mothin Ali cited casualties in Gaza and ongoing Israeli attacks as context for the vote. Party leader Zack Polanski did not vote.