Tucker Carlson Faces Backlash for Comments on Charlie Kirk
Tucker Carlson has come under fire from Jewish organizations and Israeli media for allegedly promoting anti-Semitic conspiracy theories related to the death of Charlie Kirk.
During a speech at Kirk’s memorial on Sunday, the former Fox News host made a comparison involving the death of Jesus, suggesting parallels between the two figures.
“So, around two thousand years ago, Jesus showed up in Jerusalem, talking about those in power, and he did the one thing people really can’t stand: telling the truth about them,” he said.
“They can’t handle it, and they feel compelled to silence him: ‘This guy has to be quiet. We need to put an end to his talk,'” he added.
His remarks ignited protests from various Jewish groups and individuals in Israel, who accused him of resurrecting a medieval “blood libel” narrative attributing Christ’s death to the Jews.
Some commentators pointed out that Carlson’s mention of hummus, which wouldn’t have been consumed two millennia ago, seemed to connect to contemporary Israel.
“Like a cartoon villain, Tucker Carlson uses Charlie Kirk’s memorial to spread harmful anti-Semitic ideas,” said Iron Levy, a former Israeli government spokesperson.
Another critic remarked, “Once again, Carlson feels the need to tie Kirk’s murder to the Jewish community. It’s as if he can’t help but place blame somewhere on the Jews, no matter the context,” said Matthew Schmitz, editor of Compact Magazine.
Several figures from the Palestinian media, such as QUDS News Network, amplified Carlson’s statements, suggesting that he insinuated Israeli involvement in Kirk’s death at the monument for the late founder.
Far-right influencers in the U.S., like Candace Owens and Nick Fuentes, have also echoed theories implicating Israel in Kirk’s assassination on September 10.
As the controversy unfolds, Carlson’s representatives have yet to respond to requests for commentary.
During the same event, President Trump, Vice President J.D. Vance, and various senior Republicans shared a stage with Carlson. Notably, speakers of Jewish descent, including Stephen Miller and Laura Rumer, were present at the memorial.
