Netanyahu Denies ‘Denigrating’ Jesus Christ After Iranian Foreign Minister’s Criticism
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Last Updated:March 20, 2026, 20:21 IST
The Israeli premier’s comments drew sharp criticism from Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who called Netanyahu’s statements “remarkable” on X.
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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday denied “denigrating" Jesus Christ during a press conference, after facing criticism from Iranian officials over his remarks comparing Jesus with Genghis Khan.
Speaking at a press briefing, Netanyahu said, “History proves that, unfortunately and unhappily, Jesus Christ has no advantage over Genghis Khan. Because if you are strong enough, ruthless enough, powerful enough, evil will overcome good. Aggression will overcome moderation."
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Following widespread online criticism, Netanyahu said that “fake news" had circulated about his attitude towards Christians.
In a statement, he said, “More fake news about my attitude towards Christians, who are protected and flourish in Israel. Let me be clear: I did not denigrate Jesus Christ at my news conference this evening."
The Israeli premier’s comments drew sharp criticism from Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who called Netanyahu’s statements “remarkable" on the social media platform X.
For a man so reliant on goodwill of Christians in the United States, Netanyahu’s open disdain for Jesus Christ (PBUH) is remarkable.His unbridled praise for Djingis Khan, the worst slaughterer our region has ever seen, also fits with his current status as a wanted war criminal. pic.twitter.com/xIoTiuO1vZ
— Seyed Abbas Araghchi (@araghchi) March 20, 2026
Araghchi in his post wrote: “For a man so reliant on goodwill of Christians in the United States, Netanyahu’s open disdain for Jesus Christ (PBUH) is remarkable. His unbridled praise for Djingis Khan, the worst slaughterer our region has ever seen, also fits with his current status as a wanted war criminal."
The controversy comes amid escalating hostilities in the Middle East. Since February 28, Israel and the United States have launched joint strikes on Iran, killing more than 1,200 people, including Iran’s then-Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
In retaliation, Iran has carried out drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf countries hosting US military forces, causing casualties and infrastructure damage while disrupting global markets and aviation.
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