Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sharply criticized conservative commentator Tucker Carlson during a filmed conversation with Dinesh D’Souza, released this week as part of the lead-up to D’Souza’s upcoming documentary The Dragon’s Prophecy.
The film, which links current Middle East events with biblical prophecy, is set for release in early October.
In a preview clip shared Wednesday, D’Souza asked Netanyahu about Carlson’s recent question to Senator Ted Cruz, in which Carlson cast doubt on whether modern Jews in Israel were truly descendants of the Israelites described in the Bible.
“Of course, there’s no question about it,” Netanyahu responded. “The Jews spread from this land to various parts of Europe, to the Middle East, and elsewhere, but we never, never forgot this land. We said, ‘Next year in Jerusalem.’ My great-grandfather came here in the 19th century. Most of the Palestinians who are alive today came after him.”
Netanyahu went on to tout Israel’s modern role.
“On the one hand, regaining our ancient ancestral homeland, and on the other, developing a state that becomes a juggernaut of technology and development. We’re Silicon Valley in the Middle East, a democratic society in the face of enormous attacks from countries that want to annihilate us every day.”
Directly addressing Carlson, Netanyahu said: “Who is Tucker Carlson defending? These are people who chant ‘Death to America.’ They’re after you. They want to destroy Western civilization. They want to destroy everything that America stands for. They say Israel is a small Satan. The big Satan is America.”
The Israeli leader also emphasized Israel’s protection of Christians.
“The only place where Christians are safe in the Middle East is in Israel. Not tolerated—welcomed. They participate in our society. We take care of the holy places which are destroyed everywhere else. Churches are blowing up throughout the Middle East.”
Netanyahu accused Carlson of misunderstanding history and aligning with America’s enemies. “If Tucker Carlson is asking you that, then he has no idea—not just of Jewish history, but of history,” he said. “Who are these so-called defenders of MAGA defending? They’re defending the worst enemies on the planet against America. They’re not MAGA.”
He then praised former President Donald Trump, calling him “the greatest friend that Israel has ever had” and stressing that both nations face the same threat from Iran. “I’m very proud of the fact that Israel is the frontline of this battle of civilization against the barbarism that threatens all free societies.”