Saudi Arabia Drops Antisemitism From School Texts

Saudi Arabia has effectively removed all antisemitic content from its public school textbooks for the 2025-26 academic year, according to a comprehensive new review by the research institute IMPACTse. The findings indicate a significant continuation of educational reforms aligned with the kingdom's Vision 2030 modernization program, reflecting a notable shift in its portrayal of religious minorities, Israel, and peace.

The report, released on Monday, examined 136 textbooks and concluded that the curriculum is now entirely free of antisemitic content, with the final vestiges eliminated. IMPACTse CEO Marcus Sheff described the curriculum as having "never been more positive in its portrayal of religious minorities or more encouraging of peace and tolerance." The review noted progress in moderating stories promoting armed conflict and restrictive gender roles, and highlighted a decisive stance against extremism, with textbooks condemning groups like ISIS and Al-Qaeda.

A central aspect of the reforms is the further softening of language regarding Israel and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Terms such as "Zionist enemy" have been replaced in history texts with more neutral...