Royal commission witness challenges Israel’s legitimacy and labels Zionism extremist
A witness at Australia’s royal commission on antisemitism questioned Israel’s right to exist and described Zionism as violent extremism.
Sydney-based solicitor Rita Jabri Markwell appeared before the Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion to outline a de-humanisation model designed to flag hate speech targeting protected characteristics. Commissioner Virginia Bell queried whether she accepted the legitimacy of Israel at its 1948 United Nations recognition; Markwell responded that a state reliant on unlawful occupation, apartheid and genocide lacks legitimacy.
Nicholas Bender, counsel for several Jewish groups, cited Markwell’s Substack article labeling Zionism as violent extremism, and she agreed, referencing research on de-humanisation in extremist movements. Bender also raised a piece by former witness Mia Kline, prompting Markwell to express difficulty reconciling Zionist ideology with values of peace and human dignity. The exchange underscored sharp disagreements over antisemitism, Zionism and hate-speech policy in Australia.
Why it matters
The testimony shapes how Australia defines antisemitism and addresses contentious views on Israel.
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