Only a few days after the murder of Charlie Kirk, the Israeli city of Netanya dedicated a traffic circle in his memory. Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, was a prominent voice among young conservatives in the United States and consistently defended Israel against international criticism. His death has drawn condemnation and grief from Israeli leaders, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who called him “a lionhearted friend of Israel.” Rabbi Tuly Weisz, founder of Israel365, spoke with the Mayor about her decision to honor Charlie Kirk in this way.
What led you to the decision to name a traffic circle in Netanya after Charlie Kirk?
The shocking murder of Charlie Kirk is an extreme marker of the polarization in the United States between different sectors, and perhaps a crossing of a red line in the spreading inability within democratic countries to conduct a cultural, respectful, and humane dialogue.
Charlie Kirk was a social activist, writer, and radio host who defined himself as pro-Israel and consistently expressed support for Israel. At a time when distorted and misleading positions are spreading worldwide and harming the American people as well, it is appropriate to give this dear man a hand and a lasting memory.
What message do you hope this gesture will convey to Israelis, Americans, and the broader international community?
It is important to express gratitude to this man, especially after he was murdered in the prime of his life. It is important that his memory shake the very foundations of human morality and promote nonviolence in speech and in action.
Kirk became a highly influential figure in American public opinion, particularly among the younger generation. The fact that he chose to use his influence to advance the truth about Israel strengthens our standing in the world and supports the advocacy struggle.
Why do you believe Charlie Kirk’s legacy is significant enough to warrant permanent public commemoration in Netanya?
Unfortunately, Jewish history has recorded, over hundreds and thousands of years, pogroms, disasters, the Holocaust, and, on October 7, the massacre of innocent civilians. Six million Jews were murdered in the Holocaust, and hundreds of thousands more lost their lives in pogroms across Europe and the Arab world.
Judaism commands us to remember—remember significant events and remember people, particularly for the good deeds they did.
And this is the kindness and remembrance we are obliged to do for him.
In your view, what resonated with Israelis about his activism and advocacy, especially during the current conflict with Hamas?
At a time when Israel is facing an international campaign of incitement, many in Israel especially value those who choose to tell our story from a true and courageous perspective. It creates a sense of solidarity and moral reinforcement for the Israeli position and for human justice. Today, Israel is fighting for its existence, and the boycotts, isolation, and accusations against it stem from a flawed understanding of reality. Against this backdrop, a man stood up and, with great courage, expressed the opposite view. During the Holocaust, such people were called “Righteous Among the Nations” because their actions saved Jews. Charlie Kirk was no less than such a righteous man.
Have you received public criticism or, alternatively, support for the decision to name a traffic circle after a foreign political figure?
I had the privilege to decide to name the circle after Charlie Kirk, and the privilege of receiving wall-to-wall coverage and widespread support for the move.
The media fully reported the decision and expressed appreciation and understanding of the importance of honoring someone who showed loyalty and courage to stand by Israel.
What would you say to residents of Netanya or Israelis who may feel uncomfortable with the idea of honoring someone so closely associated with partisan politics in the United States?
The decision is not about internal American politics, but about human morality, values of justice, truth, and the courage to express these values.
Are there plans for an official ceremony or a commemorative plaque at the site named after him? Will the public be invited?
Yes, absolutely. That is part of the plan. We will hold an official and dignified ceremony, place a plaque presenting Kirk’s contribution to the State of Israel, and invite representatives of the American Embassy, city officials, and of course the general public.
What do you hope residents of Netanya will learn or take from the fact that Charlie Kirk’s name is displayed in their city?
I hope that the commemoration will serve as a reminder that Israel is not alone in its struggle, and that we have partners around the world who are willing to stand by us even in challenging times. This is a legacy of loyalty, courage, and mutual responsibility.
