A recent critique has identified a cascade of inaccuracies in Eli Clifton and Ian Lustick’s publication “Israel’s Lobby: America in the Grip of a Foreign Power.” The review details numerous factual misstatements that undermine the work’s credibility.
Among the errors cited is the book’s characterization of Jonathan Pollard as a “traitor,” despite his conviction for conspiracy to deliver national defense information without treason charges under U.S. law. Morris Amitay’s name appears misspelled as “Amitai” in the text, while Representative Ritchie Torres (D-NY) is inaccurately described as aligning with Israel’s Lobby in districts lacking significant Jewish populations.
The review further highlights a claim about an Instagram post by Sara Netanyahu depicting two lions symbolizing Israel and Pahlavi shahs—a historical reference misstated due to the flag’s centuries-old Iranian cultural significance. The book also incorrectly attributes Timberland’s founding to Sidney Swartz, when Nathan Swartz was the actual founder.
Additional inaccuracies include labeling Sheldon and Miriam Adelson as “the largest donors by far” in the 2012 election cycle with a $92 million spend, while Koch networks allocated $122 million that year. Friends of the IDF is described as a “pro-Israel think tank,” though it functions as a charity providing housing for lone soldiers and mental health services for veterans.
The critique emphasizes the book’s oversight of historical antisemitism peaks during the Spanish Inquisition and Holocaust—events predating modern Israel—and its failure to address this context. It also notes significant opacity in acknowledgments, citing connections to Lina Lazaar and Mohammad Ali Munir Ahmed through funding sources tied to Ibraaz and the Kamel Lazaar Foundation.