Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has firmly rejected allegations suggesting that convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein had ties to Israeli intelligence, specifically the Mossad. In a post shared on X, Bennett expressed “100% certainty” that Epstein was not connected to Israel or the Mossad, labeling the claims as “a vicious wave of slander and lies” against the nation.
Bennett’s comments came in response to remarks made by former Fox News host Tucker Carlson, who speculated during a Turning Point USA event that Epstein could have been working on behalf of the Israeli government. Carlson's assertion has been met with skepticism and is not supported by evidence. Bennett criticized Carlson and others for making unfounded claims, arguing that such narratives are damaging to Israel.
The resurgence of Epstein's story follows the release of a Justice Department memo, which denied the existence of an Epstein “client list” and dismissed conspiracy theories surrounding his death in 2019. This memo has caused friction within President Donald Trump’s support base, as it contradicts long-held conspiracy theories regarding Epstein’s dealings. Trump, who previously indicated he would release information about Epstein if re-elected, has since urged his supporters to move away from the topic.
The allegations linking Epstein to Israeli intelligence are not new and have been previously discussed by investigative journalists. For instance, connections to media mogul Robert Maxwell, a figure with alleged ties to Israeli intelligence, have been noted, though such claims remain largely speculative. As public discourse continues around Epstein’s complex legacy, figures like Bennett aim to clarify Israel's stance amidst ongoing conspiracy theories.