Zionism and Settler Colonialism: A Reckoning

The historical narrative of Zionism has been a source of contention and debate, particularly when it comes to its relationship with settler colonialism. There is a prevalent view that Zionism legitimized its claim to Palestine by appealing to a colonial mindset. This viewpoint is not without its flaws, and a critical analysis reveals the deep entanglement of Zionism with the principles and practices of settler colonialism.

The Nature of Settler Colonialism and Its Distinction from Classic Colonialism

Settler colonialism, as a specific phenomenon, fundamentally differs from classic colonialism. It involves the establishment of a permanent population in a territory, often with the intent of carving out a homeland for the settlers themselves. This form of colonialism is characterized by the settlers' desire to not only exploit resources but to transform the land itself into their homeland, which can lead to the displacement and annihilation of the indigenous population.

Early Zionists and Their Acknowledgment of Colonial Practices

Many early Zionists openly embraced the colonial nature of their project. Patrick Wolfe's concept of the "logic of elimination" underscores the need for settlers to both morally justify and practically implement the removal of indigenous populations. Zionist leaders like Ze'ev Jabotinsky and Vladimir Jabotinsky explicitly stated their intentions, suggesting that Arabs in Palestine were seen as obstacles to be overcome.

Zionist Leaders Embracing Colonialism

Ze'ev Jabotinsky: In 1923, he stated, ‘Every native population in the world resists colonists as long as it has the slightest hope of being rid of the danger of being colonised. That is what the Arabs in Palestine are doing and what they will persist in doing as long as there remains a solitary spark of hope that they will be able to prevent the transformation of ‘Palestine’ into the ‘Land of Israel.’’ Menachem Usishkin: As chairman of the Jewish National Fund, he called for the expulsion of Palestinians, stating, ‘Against this the most conscientious person could not argue . . . For the [Palestinian] Arabs of the Galilee Transjordan is a province . . . this will be for the resettlement of Palestine’s Arabs. This the land problem. . . . Now the [Palestinian] Arabs do not want us because we want to be the rulers. I will fight for this. I will make sure that we will be the landlords of this land.’ Vladimir Jabotinsky: His famous Iron Wall doctrine proclaimed, ‘A voluntary reconciliation with the Arabs is out of the question either now or in the future. If you wish to colonize a land in which people are already living you must provide a garrison for the land or find some rich man or benefactor who will provide a garrison on your behalf. Or else-or else give up your colonization for without an armed force which will render physically impossible any attempt to destroy or prevent this colonization… Zionism is a colonization adventure and therefore it stands or falls by the question of armed force.’

The Colonial Origins and Support of Zionism

The financial and military support for Zionism was rooted in colonial practices. The establishment of the Jewish Colonial Trust and the Palestine Jewish Colonization Association was indicative of the colonial mindset. The Jewish Colonization Association, founded by Baron Maurice de Hirsch, later combined with Lord Edmond de Rothschild's organization, provided the necessary financial support for land purchases and the establishment of early Zionist colonies. This support was continuous until the post-World War II era when decolonization efforts led to a whitewashing of the colonial origins of Zionism.

Rebranding Zionism as an Anticolonial Movement

Following the British White Paper of 1939, which limited Jewish immigration to Palestine, the Zionist movement, once an ally of British colonialism, was rebranded as an anticolonial movement. This rebranding was a strategic response to maintain support while facing criticism. The idea that Zionism was anticolonial was a convenient narrative that ignored the historical and ongoing support it received from imperial powers.

The Continuation of Colonial Practices

Despite the rebranding, the principles of settler colonialism continued to be practiced. The British Empire's role in supporting Zionist settlements and later the United States' involvement highlight the continuous nature of colonial support for Zionism. The conflict in Palestine-Israel is a legacy of this colonial venture, with the international community often preferring to ignore the colonial roots in favor of nationalist narratives.

In conclusion, while Zionism has indeed created a thriving national entity, its origins and practices are deeply entangled with settler colonialism. The critical examination of this history is essential to understanding the ongoing conflict and to seeking a just resolution.