Bill O’Reilly says he was 'stunned' by media reaction to Trump's Jesus image, calls critics 'pagan'

WASHINGTON, DC: Conservative commentator Bill O'Reilly criticized media reactions over President Donald Trump's controversial social media post depicting himself as Jesus while speaking on NewsNation on Monday, April 13.

He also remarked on Trump's strategy in the Iran conflict as the geopolitical situation remains tense, with developments unfolding across military, political, and public spheres.

Bill O’Reilly points to the media's hypocrisy

O’Reilly expressed strong disapproval of how the media reacted to the image of Trump as Jesus. He stated that he was “stunned” by what he described as “pagans in the media” being upset, accusing them of hypocrisy and claiming they had little genuine concern for religious matters.

He suggested that the image was intended to be humorous, noting that Trump was symbolically depicted as "receiving a doctorate in theology" rather than presenting himself as a real religious figure.

O’Reilly argued that the backlash reflected broader media hostility toward the president, saying the reaction demonstrated that “the media just hates Donald Trump and everything he does.” However, he also acknowledged that sharing the image may not have been a wise decision, attributing it to Trump being exhausted and facing immense pressure.

During a news conference at the White House, Trump acknowledged sharing the image, which was removed some 13 hours after it was posted, but said he thought it depicted him as a doctor and "had to do with Red Cross as a Red Cross worker there."

The post even drew backlash from his MAGA supporters, with The Daily Wire culture reporter Megan Basham calling it an "outrageous blasphemy." 

Bill O’Reilly on Trump’s Iran strategy

Turning to the geopolitical situation, O’Reilly described the US strategy in the Strait of Hormuz as “pretty good,” suggesting that the US Navy could block most of Iran’s oil exports, which would significantly damage Iran’s already struggling economy.

He emphasized that the stakes are extremely high, calling the Iran situation “the biggest gamble” of Trump’s life and stating that the president must succeed or risk being remembered as a “loser president,” similar to former President Lyndon B Johnson.

When asked whether Americans could endure a prolonged conflict, O’Reilly responded that they have “no choice,” as Trump was elected and would pursue his strategy regardless of public discomfort or potential political consequences, such as losing midterm elections.

Strait of Hormuz tensions and domestic protests escalate over Israel's conduct

Iran has outlined a firm stance regarding the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil chokepoint. Authorities in Tehran stated they are committed to ensuring the strait’s security but warned that vessels linked to adversaries may be denied passage.

Plans are underway to impose tariffs and transit fees on ships, alongside introducing new routes closer to Iran’s coastline, signaling efforts to increase control and authority over the passage. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) reinforced this position, emphasizing a “security for all or none” approach, meaning any threats to Iranian assets would trigger reciprocal retaliation.

Meanwhile, domestic unrest has surfaced in the US. In New York City, police arrested approximately 90 protesters in Manhattan during demonstrations against the war in Iran and US arms support for Israel. The protests were led by Jewish Voice for Peace and included notable figures such as Chelsea Manning, Hari Nef, and Alexa Aviles.

Protesters initially attempted a sit-in at the offices of Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, accusing them of supporting Israeli military actions. After being denied entry, demonstrators blocked traffic outside, chanting “Fund people, not bombs!” before being detained and transported by police.