Attacking the pro-Israel lobby has become the acceptable way to attack Jews - opinion

Cookie Schwaeber-Issan argues that attacks on AIPAC and other pro-Israel lobbying groups are a veiled form of antisemitism. She claims a coordinated campaign aims to destroy these groups, citing a Guardian article by Ian Lustick as an example. The author defends the lobby and warns that abandoning Israel would be a mistake.

In this opinion piece, Cookie Schwaeber-Issan argues that attacking the pro-Israel lobby, particularly AIPAC, has become an acceptable way to attack Jews. She contends that a coordinated campaign by 'haters of the Jewish state' aims to destroy these lobbying groups, which would close financial support, prevent military aid, and allow for unchecked anti-Jewish criticism. The author identifies several groups, including AIPAC, Christians United for Israel, and the Republican Jewish Coalition, and claims they have never been more reviled than in the last three years. She criticizes a Guardian article by Ian Lustick that argues presidents have caved to Israeli pressure, dismissing it as defamatory. Schwaeber-Issan invokes George Washington's Farewell Address but argues it does not apply to Israel, which she describes as a unique ally rooted in Judeo-Christian values. She frames Israel as fighting an existential war and warns that abandoning it would be a mistake. The piece is a defense of the pro-Israel lobby and a critique of its detractors.