‘Sharia law…’: Tucker Carlson draws criticism for saying Islamic society is ‘more advanced’ than Western society

American commentator Tucker Carlson sparked a debate after a video went viral in which he suggested that societies governed by Sharia law were “more advanced” than Western societies.He made the remarks during an episode of The Tucker Carlson Show.In the clip, Carlson said: “None of the Western cities were thriving… They all declined morally and physically due to self-hatred and a loss of the will to live.”He takes the comparison further: “Sharia law makes Islamic societies more advanced than Western societies.”Carlson then contrasted this with his own experiences in the Middle East. “I travel a lot to the Middle East. It’s amazing. They’re Muslim. Countries governed by Sharia law. When you go there, you see it’s an incredible place, a place that’s proud of itself, believes in its religion and culture, and thinks ‘we’re on to something.’ That confidence creates stability… and hospitality.”The comments sparked a backlash, especially from the right and MAGA. Laura Loomer accused Carlson of “romanticizing” the jihadist community and claimed his comments supported her long-standing accusation that Carlson had actually “converted to Islam” or become a foreign-influenced “Katharson” figure.Social media users also said Carlson’s comments were meant to praise a system they said repressed Christians and Jews while attacking Western values.However, Carlsen’s supporters and team deny these claims. They pointed to a full account of the incident and said no quotes were fabricated and Carlson did not call for the United States to adopt Sharia law. Instead, they framed his remarks as an observation on why certain Gulf states such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates appear stable and confident compared with Western capitals.They also emphasized that Carlson has repeatedly described himself as a “fervent Christian” and has no intention of converting.The controversy comes amid ongoing divisions among conservatives over foreign policy, particularly U.S. involvement in the Middle East, support for Israel and the war against Iran.Carlson even visited Qatar a few months ago for the Doha Forum and interviewed the country’s prime minister. During the event, he announced plans to buy a house in Doha, saying he liked the city and would choose where to live as a “free man.”