UN General Assembly Resolution 3379 Declares Zionism as a Form of Racism

In November 1975, the United Nations General Assembly, led by Austrian Secretary General Kurt Waldheim, adopted Resolution 3379, which controversially declared that 'Zionism is a form of racism and racial discrimination.' This resolution marked a pivotal moment in international relations, significantly influencing global perceptions of Zionism and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The resolution was met with vehement opposition from Israel and its allies, who argued that it unfairly targeted the Jewish state and undermined the legitimacy of Jewish self-determination. The backlash against Resolution 3379 highlighted the deep divisions within the international community regarding the Israeli-Palestinian issue. After years of diplomatic efforts and changing geopolitical dynamics, the resolution was ultimately rescinded in December 1991 through Resolution 46/86, reflecting a shift in the UN's approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and a broader recognition of the complexities surrounding Zionism. This historical episode remains a significant reference point in discussions about anti-Zionism and racism, illustrating the ongoing tensions in Middle Eastern politics and international diplomacy.