Rod Stewart Condemns Israel as Ties With Trump Fray

British music legend Rod Stewart has ignited controversy with a striking condemnation of Israel and its leadership, accusing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of seeking to annihilate the Palestinian people.

In a recent interview with Radio Times, the 80-year-old singer compared Israel’s military actions to historical atrocities against Jews, claiming, “What Netanyahu is doing to the Palestinians is exactly what happened to the Jews. It’s annihilation, and that’s all he wants to do get rid of them all.” His remarks have drawn sharp criticism for their false equivalence and inflammatory rhetoric.

Stewart also revealed that his once-warm relationship with former U.S. President Donald Trump has deteriorated specifically over Trump's support for Israel. “No, I can’t anymore,” Stewart said when asked if they remain friends. “As long as he’s selling arms to the Israelis and he still is. How’s that war ever gonna stop?”

The rock star and Trump were long-time neighbors in Palm Beach, Florida, and social acquaintances. “I live literally half a mile away. We’re both on the beach,” Stewart said, recalling past visits to Trump’s Christmas parties. However, he now claims Trump has changed since entering politics “Since he became president, he became another guy. Somebody I didn’t know.”

Stewart’s comments reflect a growing trend of public figures leveling unfounded accusations against Israel often echoing hostile narratives divorced from the facts on the ground. While Israel continues to defend its citizens against attacks from Hamas, Hezbollah, and other Iranian-backed terror groups, such statements risk undermining support for the only democracy in the Middle East.

Despite his fame, Stewart’s remarks reveal a troubling misunderstanding of the complex realities Israel faces. Rather than annihilation, Israel’s actions are focused on neutralizing threats and protecting innocent lives Jewish, Arab, and others within its borders.

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