Israel and U.S. Deny Tucker Carlson’s Claim of Airport Detention

American commentator Tucker Carlson briefly visited Israel this week to interview U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee, later claiming he was detained and interrogated by Israeli security — an allegation strongly denied by both Israel and the ambassador.

Carlson landed at Ben Gurion Airport and remained inside the VIP terminal before departing the country. After leaving, he told the Daily Mail that security officials took passports and questioned his team about their interview.

The Israel Airports Authority rejected the claim, stating Carlson was not detained or interrogated. Officials said he was asked routine security questions in a private room to protect his privacy — standard procedure for many travelers.

Ambassador Huckabee also dismissed the allegation, noting that passport checks and security questions are normal for all entrants, including himself.

The visit followed a public dispute between Carlson and Huckabee. Carlson has sharply criticized Israel on his podcast, while Huckabee previously invited him to visit and discuss concerns directly.

Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett also criticized Carlson, accusing him of exaggerating events for publicity.

According to Melissa Francis, a mutual acquaintance who helped arrange the meeting, the interview between Carlson and Huckabee was lengthy, emotional, and professional. She described it as a direct exchange of strong views, with Huckabee challenging Carlson’s claims.

Shortly after leaving Israel, Carlson released a podcast episode critical of Israeli policies toward Christians.

The episode adds to ongoing tensions within conservative political circles in the United States over Israel policy.