Critics of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s (IHRA) definition of anti-Semitism are once again lashing out—this time at Columbia University’s decision to formally adopt it. Anti-Israel commentator and New York Times contributor Peter Beinart denounced Columbia’s move on social media, claiming that “close to none” of the faculty teaching antisemitism courses support the internationally recognized standard.
“So @Columbia has just adopted the IHRA definition of antisemitism,” Beinart posted. “How many of the Columbia faculty who teach classes on antisemitism do you think support this decision. My guess: Close to None.”
The IHRA definition, originally implemented at the federal level by President Donald Trump in 2019 and reinforced in January 2025, describes antisemitism as “a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews.” It outlines examples like inciting violence against Jews, denying the Holocaust, or holding all Jews accountable for the State of Israel.
Columbia’s acting president Claire Shipman announced Tuesday that the university would now use the IHRA definition “in the work of our Office of Institutional Equity.”
Beinart’s backlash comes despite Columbia facing massive federal scrutiny over campus antisemitism. The Trump administration revoked over $430 million in funding due to the university’s failure to protect Jewish students, according to the Washington Free Beacon. Columbia’s recent “D” grade on the ADL’s campus antisemitism report underscores the urgency for reform.
Beinart’s hostility toward Israel is well documented. He has denied Israel’s right to exist and received six-figure payments from the Foundation for Middle East Peace, which supports anti-Israel groups.
With federal pressure mounting, Columbia’s shift aligns with President Trump’s commitment to defend Jewish students. As Trump’s executive order states, “Antisemitism must be confronted, not tolerated.”
