In a striking development, the complete text of a letter from the late conservative activist Charlie Kirk to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has surfaced, offering insight into Kirk’s intricate perspective on Israel.
The letter, released by the New York Post, reflects Kirk’s profound respect for Israel while pressing for a significant shift in its public communication approach, amid a heated dispute over his views following his tragic death on Sept. 10 in Utah.
The narrative starts on May 2, when Kirk, a well-known conservative figure, wrote a detailed seven-page letter to Netanyahu.
In this correspondence, he conveyed a strong personal bond with Israel while sounding the alarm on fading support among younger Americans.
He pointed out the growing wave of hostility on social media platforms and in college environments.
Kirk urged swift action to address these troubling trends.
On Sept. 10, tragedy unfolded as Kirk was fatally shot during a speaking engagement in Utah.
After his passing, Netanyahu spoke publicly on Fox News, citing portions of Kirk’s letter and mentioning a planned trip to Israel that would never occur.
The Israeli leader referenced Kirk’s statement about defending Israel as a Christian, igniting a firestorm of debate among conservative circles.
On Sept. 15, conservative commentator Candace Owens, a friend of Kirk, criticized Netanyahu’s depiction of the letter during her podcast.
She accused him of skewing its essence by omitting context, particularly regarding Kirk’s worries about Israel’s impact on American politics and free speech.
Owens insisted that the full document be made public to clarify its message.
Subsequently, the New York Post disclosed the entire letter, giving readers access to Kirk’s complete viewpoint.
Analysts like Gideon Askowitz and Nathan Livingstone responded, claiming the text refuted Owens’ interpretation and underscored Kirk’s genuine fondness for Israel.
In a post on X dated Oct. 1, Askowitz described the letter as overflowing with admiration, despite its pointed critique of specific shortcomings.