In an unequivocal denial of recent conspiracy claims, ex-Israeli PM Naftali Bennett yesterday dismissed reports that Jeffrey Epstein had ties with Israeli intelligence. The denial came in the wake of provocative comments by American commentator Tucker Carlson, who claimed that Mossad might have employed Epstein.
The theory, if unproven, has sparked renewed speculation regarding Epstein’s foreign connections. Meanwhile, Donald Trump has called for the release of all “credible” Epstein files.
Bennett Brands the Allegations a ‘Vicious Wave of Lies’
Naftali Bennett refuted the speculation that Israel or Mossad employed Epstein. “The charge that Jeffrey Epstein somehow worked for Israel or the Mossad operating a blackmail operation is absolutely and completely false,” he stated. He explained that these lies are part of a wider “vicious wave of defamation and lies” against Israel.
The former PM said that his nation would no longer stand such stories. The remark came in the wake of increasing online talk and renewed controversy surrounding Epstein’s history.
Tucker Carlson Spins Rumours at Conservative Gathering
The renewed furor arose from a speech given by Tucker Carlson at a conservative gathering. The right-wing commentator asserted—without proof—that Epstein may have belonged to an overseas intelligence blackmail ring. Carlson speculated that Israeli intelligence had employed Epstein to procure compromising material on prominent leaders.
Even if there isn’t concrete evidence backing up his theory, Carlson’s words sparked renewed scrutiny of Epstein’s early affiliations, including his close association with Ghislaine Maxwell and her father, Robert Maxwell, who has long been believed to have ties to intelligence communities.
Old Allegations, Familiar Names Resurface
Speculation about an Israeli intelligence link isn’t new. There were some previous reports that surmised mutual connections among Epstein and the Maxwell family. Epstein also had documented encounters with former Israeli PM Ehud Barak, further fueling speculation.
However, the FBI and US Department of Justice have rejected any suggestion that Epstein had a “client list” or was blackmailing prominent personalities. The earlier released memo found no evidence of the existence of such a list.
Trump Wants Epstein Files Released
US President Donald Trump has chimed in as well. Addressing the White House, he pressed the Department of Justice to deliver all “credible” documents from the Epstein investigation. “The attorney general has handled that very well,” Trump declared, referencing DOJ leader Pam Bondi.
Trump also accused the Epstein scandal of being a political tool manufactured by Democrats. Although he had stated during his campaign for the presidency that he would “probably” publish the documents, Trump now accuses his predecessors of keeping them locked away.
Conspiracy or Diversion?
Although Carlson’s hypothesis is devoid of supporting facts, it has resonated in political circles. Israel, under attack worldwide, and Trump’s supporters calling for openness, the Epstein affair is still politically charged.
Bennett’s reaction marks a toughening position by Israel against libellous assertions, while Trump seems to be in a hurry to change the subject and gain political capital from selective declassification.
But the truth is still underground. Without good files surfacing, Epstein’s tale will keep triggering speculations, from perilous conspiracy theories to valid questions still lingering.
