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Short answer
Despite ongoing claims of European origin by anti-Israel activists, Jewish indignity in Israel is supported by historical, archaeological, and genetic evidence.
The name “Jew” derives from Judea, a connection even Hamas and Hezbollah acknowledge. A 3,000-year history and the land’s centrality to Jewish life, including traditions like “Next Year in Jerusalem” and the 699 mentions of Jerusalem in the Tanakh (The Bible), underscore this indignity.
Archaeological findings like ancient settlements and the Dead Sea Scrolls further attest to this connection. Genetic studies reveal Middle Eastern origins for most Jewish Diaspora groups, with 80% of Jewish men and 50% of Jewish women tracing their ancestry there.
Long answer
Jews are indigenous to Israel, supported by historical, archaeological, and genetic evidence. Anti-Israel activists often rewrite history, claiming Jews are European occupiers with no right to the land, and labeling them “settler colonialists.” However, the name “Jew” derives from Judea, and even Hamas and Hezbollah acknowledge this connection, referring to Jews as “Yahud” (from “Yehuda”). Jewish indigeneity rests on a 3,000-year continuous history and the land’s central role in Jewish existence and future aspirations.
A connection to the land, often expressed through religious practice, is a key aspect of indigenous status. This connection is evident in Jewish traditions, such as the phrase “Next Year in Jerusalem.” Jerusalem is mentioned 699 times in the Tanakh (The Bible), but not in the Quran.
Archaeological excavations in Jerusalem, such as in the City of David and around the Temple Mount, have unearthed remnants of ancient Israelite settlements and evidence of a Jewish presence dating back to the First and Second Temple periods. Discoveries like the Ketef Hinnom amulets and the Dead Sea Scrolls further attest to this deep historical and religious connection.
Early population genetics studies confirm Middle Eastern origins for most Jewish Diaspora groups, including evidence that early Ashkenazi Jews were at least half Middle Eastern. These genetic studies reveal that approximately 80% of Jewish men and 50% of Jewish women have Middle Eastern ancestry, countering claims of European colonial origins.
Therefore, given the long-standing Jewish connection to the land and their return seeking self-determination, the term “settler colonialism” is inapplicable to Israel.
