The impact of the October 7 attack on Israel is difficult to overstate, as it affected the state itself, the perception of Jews both within and outside Israel, and the global image of Zionism, particularly in the United States. Despite centuries of European anti- Semitism, there were periods when Jews were regarded as victims deserving of compassion and protection. For generations, Jews were admired for their material success or intellectual achievements. Yet never in their more than three-thousand-year history has the image of the Jewish people been so heavily tarnished as it has in the past two years, after many came to recognize the threat that Zionism poses, not only to the Palestinian and American peoples but to humanity as a whole.
The events of October 7th shattered long-held narratives and prompted a shift in the thinking of prominent leaders, philosophers, politicians, artists, thinkers, and media figures. These events lifted the veil from their eyes and freed them from the fear of being labeled antisemitic. The impact of October 7th even reached the heart of the Jewish community and those living outside Israel. Tucker Carlson, the well-known American media personality and former far-right figure, was among the prominent voices that Zionism lost.
The same was true of British journalist Piers Morgan, who, along with Carlson, played a significant role in raising public awareness in their respective countries. Their positions helped deepen the divide now affecting the conservative, pro- Zionist movement, particularly among those aligned with former President Trump. His meeting with young American right-wing influencer Nick Fuentes had a notable impact, further widening the rift within the conservative movement.
Both emphasized prioritizing American interests over those of Israel, arguing that Israel is irrelevant, a stance in stark contrast to the views of Trump and all his predecessors. Carlson described Israel as a country of no strategic importance and a burden on the United States. Carlson expressed his bewilderment at the backlash over his hosting of Fuentes, saying he didn’t understand what was so controversial about his guest.
Conservative commentator Ben Shapiro, an Orthodox Jew, labelled Fuentes as antisemitic. What surprised many during Carlson’s interview with Fuentes was his apparent indifference to his guest’s extreme views, including Holocaust denial, admiration for Adolf Hitler, and disdain for Black people, particularly the American Vice President’s wife, who is of Indian descent. Even when Fuentes expressed admiration for Joseph Stalin during the interview, Carlson merely suggested moving on without addressing it. He also remained silent when Fuentes voiced concerns about organised Judaism in America. Carlson had previously mocked the concept of “God’s chosen people.”
Ultimately, the interview marked, in many ways, the culmination of Carlson’s growing antagonism toward Israel, a country he had long defended staunchly, and toward his fellow conservatives. Carlson, along with dozens of others who champion similar causes, has gained significant influence over public opinion in many countries. Their positions have caused Israel considerable concern, especially as journalist and influencer Megyn Kelly has expressed support for Carlson while criticising his detractors, including Shapiro and Mark Levine. President Trump and his vice president continue to maintain friendly ties with Carlson.
By Ahmad alsarraf
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