Jeffrey Epstein’s life and mysterious death have long fueled speculation, but recent claims by Tucker Carlson have reignited one of the most explosive conspiracy theories: that Epstein was working for Israel’s intelligence agency, Mossad. The theory, rooted in Epstein’s sudden wealth, elite ties, and links to former Israeli leaders, has gone viral, prompting a forceful denial from ex-Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett. While Carlson insists the theory is about seeking truth, Israeli officials say it’s part of a slanderous campaign. Here’s a breakdown of where the theory began, why it’s resurfaced, and how it’s being challenged.
The origins of Jeffrey Epstein’s Mossad agent theory
The conspiracy hinges on Epstein’s unexplained wealth and international connections. He had no college degree, started as a math teacher, yet owned private jets, a Caribbean island, and Manhattan’s largest townhouse. In July 2025, during a speech at the Turning Point USA Student Action Summit, Tucker Carlson claimed Epstein’s lifestyle couldn’t be explained by any public-facing business activity. Carlson suggested Epstein’s rise was possible only through covert backing, implying Mossad’s involvement. He also cited Epstein’s close relationship with former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak, pointing to dozens of meetings between the two from 2013 to 2017.
Why Carlson’s claims gained traction
Carlson framed the Mossad theory as an issue of public accountability, insisting it wasn’t antisemitic to ask whether Epstein worked for a foreign intelligence agency. His comments resonated with audiences already frustrated by the U.S. government’s lack of transparency in the Epstein case, especially regarding the so-called “client list.” Epstein’s light sentencing in earlier cases, his vast network of elite contacts, and his sudden death in jail all contribute to ongoing suspicions. On social media and within certain conservative circles, Carlson’s theory has found new life, with believers demanding deeper investigations.
Ehud Barak’s Epstein connection
A major element fueling the theory is Epstein’s documented relationship with Ehud Barak. Barak flew on Epstein’s private jet and visited his homes even after Epstein’s 2008 sex crime conviction. These interactions, involving other high-profile figures, scientists, and philanthropists, are often cited by conspiracy theorists as evidence of Israeli intelligence ties. However, Barak has consistently maintained that his meetings with Epstein were limited to legitimate business discussions and that he was unaware of Epstein’s criminal behavior at the time.
Naftali Bennett’s forceful response
Naftali Bennett, Israel’s former Prime Minister, directly addressed Carlson’s accusations in a social media post, calling them “categorically and totally false.” He stated that during his leadership, Mossad reported directly to him, and he could say with “100% certainty” that Epstein had no ties to Israel’s intelligence services. Bennett warned that such claims were not only baseless but also dangerous, adding that “a vicious wave of slander and lies” was being spread against Israel and the Jewish people. He also criticized public figures like Carlson for pushing falsehoods with confidence, knowing they would gain traction.The Epstein–Mossad theory taps into deep anxieties about hidden power, government secrecy, and elite manipulation, but it also risks spreading antisemitic tropes under the guise of investigation. Israeli officials argue that these accusations threaten to erode trust in international alliances and vilify a nation without proof. At the same time, Carlson’s comments reflect a broader public demand for clarity in the Epstein case, especially from institutions seen as opaque or compromised. As the debate intensifies, separating speculation from fact remains critical in a story where misinformation spreads easily and reputations are on the line.
