Barnet Council and BBC face criticism over Zionism debate

Barnet Council has approved a motion declaring anti-Zionism to be antisemitism, a move that has drawn criticism for targeting the Green Party’s recent declaration that Zionism is racism. Critics argue the council is utilizing the IHRA definition to suppress opposition to Israeli policies.

Separately, the BBC has faced backlash following a debate on the program Politics Live. During the discussion regarding the Green Party's stance on Zionism, Green Party activist Ashok Kumar clashed with journalist Rachel Cunliffe. Cunliffe, a Jewish woman, challenged Kumar after he characterized certain connections between Zionism and the Jewish religion as antisemitic. The incident has led to accusations that the broadcaster allowed an unbalanced debate.