The International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s (IHRA) working definition of anti-Semitism has led to widespread restrictions on the rights of assembly and freedom of expression. Published in 2016, the IHRA defines anti-Semitism as “a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews. Rhetorical and physical manifestations of anti-Semitism are directed toward Jewish or non-Jewish individuals and/or their property, toward Jewish community institutions and religious facilities.” The IHRA definition text clearly states: “criticism of Israel similar to that leveled against any other country cannot be regarded as antisemitic;” however the definition has been adopted and implemented in a way that silences criticism of Israeli government policies and practices while simultaneously validating the oppression of Palestinians. Moreover, it is important to note that some of the examples of antisemitism included in the IHRA definition, particularly those related to Israel, are protected speech under the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. That means that America may not prohibit such speech or abridge it, including by conditioning penalties upon its exercise or benefits upon its suppression.

Continuation of our discussion about the descriptions of Israel according to the Bible:

"What advantage then hath the Jew? or what profit is there of circumcision? Much every way: chiefly, because that unto them were committed the oracles of God. For what if some did not believe? shall their unbelief make the faith of God without effect? God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged." (Romans 3:1-4)

"For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise." (Galatians 3:26-29)

"And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write; These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive; I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan. Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life." (Revelation 2:8-10)

Israel is the Biblical description of those people who accept God and have inherited the promises of the Bible. Israel is not determined by nationality, birthright, race, ancestry, suffering, or history. Israel is solely determined by faith in God and it is open to anyone to become chosen.