Charlie Kirk ‘defender of our common Judeo-Christian civilization’, 'once-in-a-generation figure: How Israeli PM Netanyahu paid homage to slain Turning Point USA founder

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu paid his condolences to Charlie Kirk, the conservative activist and founder of Turning Point USA, who was tragically assassinated during a speaking event at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025. Appearing on Fox News, Netanyahu described Kirk as a "once-in-a-generation" figure, emphasizing his unwavering commitment to defending Judeo-Christian civilization and his steadfast support for Israel.

Opening his remarks on Fox News, Netanyahu said, “We are just heartbroken. My son, my wife, my family… a great human being has been taken from us.” He described Kirk as an “extraordinary friend” and recalled a letter Kirk had written to him on May 2, 2025, just weeks before he (Netanyahu) invited him to visit Israel.

"He was a defender of our common Judeo-Christian civilization," Netanyahu remarked. "He was unbelievably excited to walk in the footsteps of Jesus here. He valued our bond, the bond between America and Israel." The Prime Minister recalled a conversation with Kirk, noting that he had invited him to visit Israel, a visit that, sadly, will never take place.



Drawing a personal parallel, Netanyahu remembered his late brother, who died at the age of 30 while attempting to rescue Israeli hostages. “I think of my brother all my life,” he said. “I will be thinking of Charlie all my life.”

Netanyahu highlighted Kirk's dedication to free speech and open dialogue, stating, "He had his truth. He stood up for it. But he said, you can come and debate me. He invited that debate. He certainly didn't invite the violence, the horrible violence that tried to silence him."

The Prime Minister also drew parallels between Kirk's assassination and previous politically motivated attacks, including two attempted assassinations of President Donald Trump and an attack on Netanyahu himself. "Whether it's President Trump, who's been almost assassinated twice or, you know, they tried to kill me here, too. But they got Charlie Kirk, and it's just heartbreaking," Netanyahu said.

Netanyahu expressed the profound impact Kirk had on him personally, stating, "I’ll be thinking of Charlie all my life. Maybe they’re once in a generation, but generations, then, live by their legacy."

Charlie Kirk, 31, was fatally shot during a Turning Point USA event at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025. Authorities continue to search for a person of interest in connection with the killing, offering a $100,000 reward for information. The FBI has released surveillance images and recovered the suspected weapon as the investigation remains active.