Tucker Carlson says passport seized, staff interrogated at Israeli airport
Al Jazeera
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Tucker Carlson has claimed that his passport was confiscated and one of his staff members was interrogated by Israeli officials at Ben Gurion International Airport following an interview with US Ambassador Mike Huckabee. The conservative podcaster alleged that men identifying themselves as airport security took his travel documents, removed his executive producer from the scene, and demanded details about their conversation with the ambassador. However, Israeli authorities dismissed these claims, stating that the questioning was routine and conducted to ensure privacy. Oren Marmorstein, a spokesperson for Israel's Foreign Ministry, explained that Carlson was "politely asked a few routine questions" as part of standard procedures applied to many travelers.
The incident occurred after Carlson interviewed Huckabee at the airport without leaving the complex, according to Israeli media reports. The situation arose following a public dispute between the two men over an episode of Carlson's podcast in which he criticized the treatment of Christians in Israel. Huckabee had invited Carlson to discuss the matter directly during his visit. This exchange has drawn attention due to Carlson's growing criticism of Israel and its impact on the Republican Party, which has historically maintained unwavering support for Israel.
Carlson, a prominent figure in the MAGA movement, has increasingly vocalized his disapproval of Israeli policies. His stance has created divisions within the GOP, with some members expressing concern over the potential strain on US-Israeli relations. The incident highlights the ongoing tensions between media figures and government authorities, particularly in the context of sensitive diplomatic discussions. While Carlson's claims have sparked debate, Israel maintains that its actions were standard and aimed at safeguarding privacy during airport procedures.
The matter underscores broader concerns about the challenges faced by journalists and travelers in navigating international security protocols. As global diplomacy continues to evolve, such incidents remind us of the delicate balance between national security and individual freedoms. The situation also raises questions about the implications of high-profile figures engaging in sensitive discussions while abroad, particularly in regions with complex geopolitical dynamics.
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/20/2026