" I quite understand the difference between being opposed to the policies of the government of a state and its supporters when they are in flagrant breach of human rights, and being biased against a whole race of people."

I totally agree with you on that. Unfortunately, there are many who believe that you cannot criticize the Israeli government or the evolution of Zionism. At one time, the U.N. actually equated Zionism with racism. That has changed, however. Here's the latest:

http://www.nysun.com/article/49080