Netanyahu Calls America the "New Rome": "The Old Rome Defeated Us, But the New Rome Won't"

June 25, 2026

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin "Bibi" Netanyahu has sparked widespread discussion after comparing the United States to the "new Rome," while reflecting on the historic struggle between the Roman Empire and the Jewish people.

During a recent interview, Netanyahu said he has been reading The Jews vs. Rome, a book examining the ancient conflict between Rome and Jerusalem. Referring to the destruction of Jerusalem by the Romans nearly 2,000 years ago, he declared:

"The old Rome defeated us, but the new Rome won't."

Netanyahu explained that although ancient Rome conquered Judea and destroyed the Second Temple, today's United States stands alongside Israel rather than against it. He described the modern U.S.-Israel alliance as one built on shared democratic values, common security interests, and a long-standing strategic partnership.

The Israeli leader has used the "new Rome" comparison before. In 2019, while speaking alongside senior U.S. officials, he said that ancient Rome and Jerusalem once clashed over values, but that modern America had become a steadfast friend of Israel instead of its adversary.

Netanyahu's latest remarks come at a time of continued regional tensions involving Israel, Iran, and Lebanon, with his government emphasizing the importance of close cooperation with Washington on security and regional stability.

The comments have quickly circulated across social media, drawing praise from supporters who view the statement as a symbol of the enduring U.S.-Israel alliance, while critics argue that the historical analogy carries significant political and diplomatic implications.

As debates continue over the future of the Middle East, Netanyahu's remarks underscore how history, faith, and geopolitics remain deeply intertwined in shaping Israel's modern foreign policy.