Exiled Muslim scholar Dalia Ziada, a Middle East scholar and coordinator at the Institute for the Study of Global Antisemitism and Policy, has warned of a growing alliance between far-left activists and Islamist groups in the U.S. and abroad. Ziada, who fled Egypt after criticizing Hamas’ October 7 attacks, argues that this alliance mirrors the dynamics that led to Iran’s 1979 Islamic Revolution, where leftist factions initially partnered with Islamists before being sidelined.
Part 1: Immediate Action & Core Facts
Ziada’s warning comes as anti-Israel activist groups mobilize coordinated "Nakba 78" protests across the U.S. and globally, marking the anniversary of Israel’s founding. Critics say these demonstrations challenge Israel’s legitimacy and, in some cases, call for its dismantling. Ziada describes the alliance as a "sinful marriage" between radical left and radical Islamist groups that oppose Western liberal democracies.
Part 2: Deeper Dive & Context
The Alliance and Its Goals
Ziada claims Islamist movements, including groups tied to the Muslim Brotherhood, have long used the Palestinian cause to build alliances with Western activist movements. She argues that both radical leftists and Islamists seek to dismantle Western systems, with the former favoring Marxism and the latter advocating for an Islamist system.
Targeting Jewish Communities
Ziada asserts that Islamist movements have increasingly targeted Jewish communities in the West, which she describes as a "pillar" supporting liberal democratic systems. She warns that these groups share a common goal of undermining Western societies.
Historical Parallels
Ziada draws comparisons to Iran’s 1979 revolution, where leftist factions initially allied with Islamists before being marginalized. She suggests a similar dynamic could emerge in the U.S. if the far-left continues to align with Islamist extremism.
Protest Context
The "Nakba 78" protests are part of a global network of anti-Israel demonstrations, with organizers using the anniversary of Israel’s founding to stage rallies. Critics argue these protests often include rhetoric that challenges Israel’s right to exist.