The altered entry states: “Zionism is a nationalist movement that emerged in late 19th-century Europe, seeking to establish and support a Jewish homeland through the colonization of Palestine. This region corresponds to the Land of Israel in Judaism and is central to Jewish history. Zionists wanted to create a Jewish state in Palestine with as much land, as many Jews, and as few Palestinian Arabs as possible.”
Observers say the language is politically biased and heavily interpretive, lacking a neutral presentation of historical facts. Terms like “colonialist” appear multiple times, framing the narrative in an anti-Zionist context not present in standard historical accounts.
By contrast, the Hebrew Wikipedia entry describes Zionism as “a national movement and ideology aimed at establishing and maintaining a national home for the Jewish people in the Land of Israel. The Zionist movement, as a Jewish-national movement, emerged in the late 19th century, mainly in Central and Eastern Europe. Shortly after its founding, most movement leaders linked its main goal to the renewal of Jewish sovereignty in the Land of Israel—the establishment of a Jewish state. With the founding of the State of Israel, Zionism continues to support Israel and ensure its security and strength.”
Yaakov Hagoel, chairman of the World Zionist Organization, condemned the English-language changes, calling them “a serious distortion of history and truth.” He added, “Zionism was born from a deep aspiration for freedom, equality and security for the Jewish people in their homeland, and it continues to carry values of democracy and peace. Those seeking to tarnish Zionism’s name harm not only Jews but also challenge all peoples’ right to self-determination and a free life in their homelands.”