Benjamin Netanyahu pays heartfelt tribute to Chuck Norris: 'A great friend of Israel'

TEL AVIV, ISRAEL: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu paid tribute to martial artist and actor Chuck Norris on Friday, March 20, sharing a picture of them together. Norris was a steadfast supporter of Israel’s causes and of Netanyahu on the global stage.

Tributes have poured in from around the world following news that he was hospitalized in Hawaii on Thursday, with his family confirming in a statement on Friday that he passed away that morning.

Benjamin Netanyahu remembers Chuck Norris and his support for Israel

Netanyahu, in a post on X, stated, “Sara and I were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Chuck Norris, a great friend of Israel and a close personal friend. Chuck brought martial arts and the warmth of his character to millions around the world. May his memory be a blessing.” The shared image showed the two smiling and embracing.

The National Library of Israel also issued a tribute, featuring Norris in Israel during the filming of his 1986 film The Delta Force. Norris had consistently expressed political support for Netanyahu, releasing endorsement videos in 2013 and again in 2015, urging Israelis to vote for him.

In these messages, Norris praised Netanyahu’s leadership and courage against “evil forces” threatening both Israel and the United States.

During a 2017 visit to Israel, Norris met Netanyahu alongside his wife, Gena O'Kelley. During their interaction, Netanyahu remarked, “Listen, Israel is strong, but it's indestructible now.” He also thanked Norris, saying, “Thanks for all the support.” Norris responded, “Believe me, you'll always have my support. Thank you.”

Political leaders respond after family issues statement

Norris’ family confirmed his passing in a social media statement, “It is with heavy hearts that our family shares the sudden passing of our beloved Chuck Norris yesterday morning. While we would like to keep the circumstances private, please know that he was surrounded by his family and was at peace.”

The statement described him as a “martial artist, actor, and a symbol of strength” to the world, and a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and brother to his family. They added that he lived with faith, purpose, and commitment, inspiring millions globally.

They further expressed gratitude for the support received, stating that fans meant deeply to him and were considered friends. The family acknowledged awareness of his recent hospitalization and thanked people for their prayers, while requesting privacy during their time of grief.

Reacting to the news, President Donald Trump said, “Oh, he did?” before adding, “He was a great guy. He was a really good, tough cookie. You didn't want to fight him.”

Norris was a vocal Christian conservative and a strong advocate for gun rights, supporting several Republican candidates over the years. Notably, he even went skydiving with former President George W. Bush to celebrate his 80th birthday. He had also authored books centered on Christian and patriotic values.

The Republican governor of Texas, Greg Abbott also paid tribute, writing, “Texas has lost a legend. All of Texas mourns the passing of Chuck Norris. He was not only a martial arts champion, action icon, and the one and only Walker, Texas Ranger. But he electrified generations of conservatives, giving them a passion and voice to fight for the principles that make America the greatest nation on earth.”