Podcast Summary: Jonathan Greenblatt on Antisemitism, Anti-Zionism, and Free Speech

Podcast Information:

• Title: The Daily
• Host/Author: The New York Times
• Episode: Jonathan Greenblatt on Antisemitism, Anti-Zionism and Free Speech
• Release Date: August 9, 2025
• Duration: Approximately 64 minutes

Introduction

In this episode of The Daily, host Lulu Garcia Navarro engages in an in-depth conversation with Jonathan Greenblatt, the head of the Anti-Defamation League (ADL). The discussion centers on the alarming rise of antisemitism in the United States, the complex relationship between anti-Zionism and antisemitism, and the ADL's role in navigating these challenges amidst the backdrop of the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict.

State of Antisemitism in America

Jonathan Greenblatt highlights a significant surge in antisemitic incidents and attitudes in the U.S. Over the past five years, antisemitic sentiments have more than doubled, with 2024 marking the worst year on record for harassment, vandalism, and violence against Jewish individuals and institutions.

Jonathan Greenblatt [02:24]: "Elevated or intense antisemitic attitudes as a percent of the population have more than doubled in the last five years... last year, 2024 was the worst year we had ever recorded in terms of acts of harassment, vandalism, and violence directed at Jewish people or Jewish institutions."

Greenblatt attributes this rise to increased polarization, the emboldenment of extremists on both the right and left, and the amplifying role of social media, which creates a "combustible environment" ripe for scapegoating Jews.

Jonathan Greenblatt [10:49]: "Polarization and cynicism create an environment where scapegoating happens and Jews play this perennial role as the scapegoat."

Differentiating Criticism of Israel and Antisemitism

A pivotal part of the conversation delves into distinguishing legitimate criticism of Israel from antisemitism. Greenblatt asserts that while critique of Israeli policies is valid and supported by the ADL, crossing into demonization, delegitimization, or applying double standards constitutes antisemitism.

Jonathan Greenblatt [16:34]: "Criticism of Israel is not antisemitic... When it crosses a line... demonization of all Israeli people... delegitimizing the state itself... double standards... That's where we think about, is this really criticism of Israel or is this something else?"

He emphasizes that actions like vandalizing synagogues with anti-Israel slogans or targeting individuals simply for being Jewish are clear instances of antisemitism, not mere political disagreement.

Anti-Zionism: Definitions and Implications

Greenblatt defines Zionism as the "right of the Jewish people to self-determination in their ancient homeland" and equates anti-Zionism with antisemitism, arguing that denying Jews this right inherently targets their existence and safety.

Jonathan Greenblatt [17:50]: "Anti Zionism is the belief that Jews do not have that right... Anti Zionism is an ideology of nihilism...".

The discussion touches on the contentious nature of this definition, with Greenblatt acknowledging debates within the Jewish community but maintaining his stance that anti-Zionism, as he defines it, is antisemitic.

ADL's Actions on College Campuses

The conversation shifts to the ADL's intervention on U.S. college campuses, specifically addressing groups like Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP). Following the October 7th Hamas attack in Israel, the ADL initiated investigations into such groups for potential material support of terrorism, citing concerning language and tactics aligned with extremist organizations.

Jonathan Greenblatt [27:05]: "...the language they were using, the tactics they were expressing support for, were in direct alignment with a terrorist organization."

Greenblatt discusses instances where SJP allegedly distributed materials associated with Hamas, leading the ADL to seek interventions at approximately 200 universities.

Criticisms of ADL's Alignment with Political Administration

Greenblatt addresses criticisms that the ADL has become too aligned with the Trump administration and the political right, potentially sacrificing its broader civil rights mission. He clarifies that the ADL collaborates with various administrations across the political spectrum to advance their mission against antisemitism.

Jonathan Greenblatt [48:20]: "We helped to write the National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism released by the Biden administration... And then I give credit to the Trump administration for actually implementing aspects of the plan..."

He defends the ADL's bipartisan approach, emphasizing their focus on combating hate and maintaining civil rights irrespective of political affiliations.

ADL’s Future and Recommendations to the Public

In concluding the interview, Greenblatt expresses concern over the normalization of antisemitism and the persistent anxiety among American Jews regarding their safety. He advocates for "radical empathy," active education, and community support as essential steps for combating hate.

Jonathan Greenblatt [56:54]: "Speak up, learn the issues and show up when you can."

He underscores the importance of building bridges between communities, particularly between Jewish and Muslim populations, to foster mutual understanding and reduce tensions.

Closing Remarks

The interview wraps up with discussions about the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict's impact on American society and Jewish communities. Greenblatt remains steadfast in his commitment to the ADL's mission, recognizing the challenges ahead in restoring safety and combating rising antisemitism.

Jonathan Greenblatt [59:35]: "All of the work to turn that around, the work to get back to a time where Jewish people, like all people, can feel safe... That's what I want to see us get back to."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• [02:24] Jonathan Greenblatt: "Elevated or intense antisemitic attitudes as a percent of the population have more than doubled in the last five years."

• [10:49] Jonathan Greenblatt: "Polarization and cynicism create an environment where scapegoating happens and Jews play this perennial role as the scapegoat."

• [16:34] Jonathan Greenblatt: "Criticism of Israel is not antisemitic... When it crosses a line... demonization of all Israeli people... delegitimizing the state itself... double standards... That's where we think about, is this really criticism of Israel or is this something else?"

• [17:50] Jonathan Greenblatt: "Anti Zionism is the belief that Jews do not have that right... Anti Zionism is an ideology of nihilism...".

• [27:05] Jonathan Greenblatt: "...the language they were using, the tactics they were expressing support for, were in direct alignment with a terrorist organization."

• [48:20] Jonathan Greenblatt: "We helped to write the National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism released by the Biden administration... And then I give credit to the Trump administration for actually implementing aspects of the plan..."

• [56:54] Jonathan Greenblatt: "Speak up, learn the issues and show up when you can."

• [59:35] Jonathan Greenblatt: "All of the work to turn that around, the work to get back to a time where Jewish people, like all people, can feel safe... That's what I want to see us get back to."

Conclusion

This episode offers a comprehensive look into the current challenges posed by rising antisemitism and the intricate dynamics between anti-Zionism and antisemitism in America. Jonathan Greenblatt articulates the ADL's strategies in addressing these issues, advocating for education, empathy, and active community engagement as pivotal tools in combating hate and ensuring the safety and dignity of Jewish communities nationwide.