GEW Reports and Analyses

Zionism and Fascism: Connections and Liaisons

Research Report Executive Summary

by Dr Hichem Karoui

 Here are some key findings from the first chapter:

1. Historical Connections: The document explores historical connections between Israeli leaders and Nazi and Fascist administrations, which may be unfamiliar to many individuals.

2. European Governments: It raises questions about the priorities of some European governments, suggesting that they may be more concerned with supporting Israeli leaders, including Prime Minister Netanyahu, than with the human rights of Palestinians in Gaza.

3. The Haavara Agreement: The Haavara (Transfer) Agreement of 1933 is discussed, highlighting its controversial nature. It allowed the transfer of Jewish assets from Germany to Palestine, aiding Jewish emigration. However, it is criticised for indirectly assisting the Nazi dictatorship.

4. Mussolini and Revisionist Zionism: The document mentions a link between Benito Mussolini, Italy’s fascist leader, and Ze’ev Jabotinsky’s Revisionist Zionist movement, although this relationship deteriorated as Italy aligned more closely with Nazi Germany.

5. Ideological Differences: It emphasises the significant ideological differences between Zionism and fascism/Nazism. Zionism aims to establish a Jewish homeland, while fascism and Nazism prioritise ethnic purity, authoritarian rule, and territorial expansion.

6. Academic Interpretations: The document acknowledges that academic perspectives on the topic vary, with scholars like Hannah Arendt criticising aspects of Zionist cooperation with Nazi Germany, while others see it as a pragmatic response to a dangerous situation.

7. Nuanced Examination: It concludes that examining the historical connections between Zionism and fascism/Nazism must be nuanced, considering various periods, circumstances, and motivations involved. Such interactions were often motivated by unique circumstances rather than a fundamental ideological agreement.