Netanyahu Leads Tributes for Charlie Kirk After Fatal Shooting

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed deep condolences following the death of US conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was fatally shot on September 10, 2025, in Utah. Kirk, 31, known for his vocal support of Israel and his close ties to former President Donald Trump, was a prominent figure in America’s right-wing movement. Netanyahu described Kirk as a “lion-hearted friend of Israel” and recalled their recent conversation, reflecting on plans for Kirk to visit the country that will now never materialize.

Tributes from Israeli Leaders

Other Israeli officials have joined in mourning Kirk’s death. Foreign Minister Gideon Saar praised him as an “incredible friend of Israel,” commending his advocacy for Judeo-Christian values and calling him a “fearless warrior for truth and freedom.” National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir shared a photograph of Kirk holding an Israeli flag outside the Ibrahimi Mosque in the West Bank, emphasizing Kirk’s recognition of threats from “the global Left and radical Islam.” Former Defence Minister Benny Gantz referred to Kirk as a “voracious defender of Judeo-Christian values, America, and the State of Israel,” while Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich described him as a “true friend of Israel.”

The tributes highlight Kirk’s significant role as a supporter of Israel within the context of US conservative politics. His advocacy for the US-Israel strategic alliance was well-known, although it sometimes sparked controversy. In his final public appearances, Kirk promoted theories suggesting that Islam and political leftists aimed to undermine both the United States and Europe. He also denied claims of a famine in Gaza attributed to Israeli actions, echoing statements from Israeli officials who characterized the famine as “pure visual warfare.”

Impact and Reaction

Despite his strong support for Israel, Kirk occasionally critiqued certain Israeli policies. He opposed laws penalizing boycotts of Israel and hosted discussions with young conservatives who were skeptical of US-Israel relations. These actions underscored his belief in the importance of free speech, even when it conflicted with pro-Israel sentiments.

Kirk’s death has sparked widespread conversations regarding the influence of US conservative figures on international relations, particularly concerning Israel. The tributes from Israeli leaders reflect the strategic and symbolic value they place on American political support. Furthermore, Kirk’s advocacy has contributed to bipartisan dialogues on Middle East policy, fostering grassroots support for Israel among American youth. His efforts illustrate how individual political figures can shape international perceptions and alliances, especially in a polarized environment.

Meanwhile, authorities in Utah have apprehended Tyler Robinson, a 22-year-old man, in connection with Kirk’s shooting at Utah Valley University. Robinson was arrested at his parents’ home following a 33-hour manhunt and faces multiple charges, including aggravated murder and weapons offenses. DNA evidence and a note indicating an intent to kill link him to the incident. Investigators are reviewing Robinson’s online activities and ideological beliefs to ascertain a motive for the crime.

This tragic event has intensified concerns about political violence in the United States and the safety of public figures in an increasingly divided climate. As tributes pour in for Kirk, his legacy as a controversial yet influential figure in American and Israeli political discourse will be remembered.