Glenn Beck Moved Israel Rally Location Fearing Horde Of ‘40,000 Muslims’

Yesterday, Glenn Beck announced he is moving hismuch-discussed upcoming rally in Jerusalem away from the base of the Temple Mount, one of the most sacred and fraught places in the world, over security concerns. Speaking on his radio show yesterday, Beck said that while he was reluctant to change the location because “it was selected for me” (i.e. by God), the notoriously paranoid and security-conscious talker said his security consultants were insistent the spot is too dangerous.

The threat? Beck was specific — 40,000 Muslims apparently looking for any reason to start “World War III.” Beck said he got word that there would be a Muslim multitude on top of the Temple Mount for a religious holiday and got worried. “When we heard about the 40,000 Muslims that were going to be on the Temple Mount, we knew there was trouble,” Beck said, explaining that even an errant light beam from his stage set up could “start a riot.” “Your back is in their direction, and these people play for keeps,” Beck said his security consultants told him. Watch it:

The former Fox News host said he is still considering other venues for the event, but boasted about its signficance regardless of location in a way only Beck can: It “will be remembered by millions in the world, as a turning point in their own personal life, and in the world.”

And how does the Israeli government feel about hosting an event of such monumental importance? Jonathan Peled, spokesman for the Israeli Embassy in Washington, offered tacit support: “We are open to any approach as long as it doesn’t cancel another approach, and respects the laws. We are interested in a big tent.”