In a recent high-profile discussion hosted by the MirYam Institute, former U.S. Secretary of State and CIA Director Mike Pompeo expressed deep concern over growing online criticism of Israel, specifically naming conservative influencers Candace Owens and Tucker Carlson. Pompeo described such voices as "dangerous and evil," highlighting worries that these views are gaining traction, particularly among younger Americans. This comes amid heightened tensions in U.S.-Israel relations debates within conservative circles.
The event, moderated by MirYam Institute CEO and IDF veteran Benjamin Anthony, featured Pompeo addressing whether the U.S. government could or should counter anti-Israel narratives from prominent figures like Carlson and Owens. Pompeo acknowledged the current reach remains limited but warned of potential escalation:
“I am worried about it because it’s gained traction. Most disconcertingly, among young people. Though such views are still small, my worry is that it will catch fire — that these embers will grow into something that is bigger. And that’s the responsibility of folks like myself and others who understand that this is both dangerous and evil and a fundamental misconception of American security to think that somehow there can be any better friend, any other ally than the nation of Israel.”
Pompeo emphasized Israel's role as America's closest ally in the region, framing criticism as a threat to national security interests.
Recent Escalation in the Debate
Latest development (as of January 2026): The controversy has intensified following a January 7, 2026, address in Israel's Knesset by Likud lawmaker Dan Illouz, who described Carlson and Owens as a "new enemy" rising within American politics. Illouz accused them of peddling "poison" disguised as patriotism and compared their rhetoric to that of the radical left.
Candace Owens responded sharply on social media, claiming the Likud party had labeled her and Tucker Carlson as enemies "that must be fought," and called the situation unacceptable. She questioned U.S. government involvement in such matters.
Read more on this recent Knesset speech and reactions: Jewish Telegraphic Agency report.
Here are some visuals from the MirYam Institute event featuring Mike Pompeo and host Benjamin Anthony:
Broader Context and Reactions
These statements echo earlier remarks from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has called similar criticism from U.S. figures "unacceptable and dangerous." Other voices in pro-Israel advocacy have described online critics as posing "existential threats" to the U.S.-Israel alliance.
On the other side, supporters of free speech argue that open discussion—even when controversial—is a cornerstone of American democracy. Critics of Pompeo's language point to the risk of chilling legitimate debate on foreign policy.
The debate reflects deeper divisions within American conservatism over U.S. foreign policy, Israel support, and the boundaries of acceptable discourse in the digital age.
Original reports referenced include posts from InfoLibNews on X (e.g., event coverage). No direct primary source transcript of the full Pompeo-MirYam event was located in recent searches, but related briefings appear on the institute's site: MirYam Institute.
This ongoing story continues to evolve, highlighting the intersection of politics, media influence, and international alliances.