Zack Polanski has stated that Zionism in its current form functions as a racist ideology and that no nation possesses an inherent right to exist, while defending a recent internal party vote that equated Zionism with racism. The leader of the Green Party in England and Wales delivered the remarks during a television interview, coming two weeks after his party approved the contentious motion.
Although Polanski did not participate in the vote itself, which drew criticism regarding his leadership, he emphasized his agreement with its core message despite previously describing discussions over specific terminology as unproductive. Asked directly whether he considered Zionism racist, Polanski asserted that the framing was not controversial.
He pointed to the ongoing death toll and humanitarian crisis in Gaza, arguing that individuals are being killed specifically because they are Palestinian, which makes the guiding ideology a racist one. While acknowledging that the party conference engaged in a debate over wording, he maintained his stance that arguments focused strictly on semantics are unhelpful.
Addressing the question of Israel's statehood, Polanski, who is Jewish, stated that no country holds a right to exist under international law. He further dismissed the concept of a two-state solution, characterizing it as unrealistic given the ongoing opposition from Israel.
Polanski also stated he felt no remorse regarding his handling of the controversy, despite pushback from notable Jewish Green Party figures, including the head of the Jewish Greens. He noted that a survey of the Jewish Greens indicated majority support for the approved motion.
The defiant interview follows a challenging fortnight for Polanski's leadership following the conference outcome and a defeat in a recent byelection. Earlier in his tenure, a strategic shift toward economic populism and vocal stances on Gaza helped boost the party's polling numbers, though recent months have brought declining support amid scrutiny over his tax affairs, a dispute with police, and the ongoing debate over the Zionism motion.
Looking ahead, Polanski expressed confidence that voters would eventually realign with the Green Party, arguing that the public will eventually recognize the party's long-standing positions despite shifts in political rhetoric elsewhere.