Israel firmly denies false harassment claims, showcasing transparency and security professionalism against misinformation campaigns globally.
Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett launched a fierce rebuke against American commentator Tucker Carlson, dismissing as fiction Carlson’s claim that he was detained upon arrival at Ben Gurion Airport.
Bennett accused Carlson of staging a misleading narrative, asserting that the media personality briefly stopped in a restricted logistics area, shared images online to imply a full visit, and departed shortly afterward. According to Bennett, no detention or harassment occurred, and the episode was exaggerated to manufacture controversy.
Carlson had alleged that following an interview with US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee, Israeli airport officials confiscated passports and questioned members of his team. He characterized the interaction as unusual and implied improper treatment.
However, both the US Embassy in Israel and the Israel Airports Authority categorically rejected those claims. Embassy representatives clarified that Carlson underwent standard passport control procedures routinely applied to visitors, including diplomats. Authorities emphasized that any questioning occurred privately in a VIP setting to preserve discretion—not as punitive action.
The Israel Airports Authority further underscored that no detention, delay, or interrogation took place beyond normal security protocol. Officials reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to maintaining firm yet professional border security standards, stressing that all travelers are treated in accordance with established procedures.
The episode highlights Israel’s consistent emphasis on security vigilance while maintaining openness to international guests, even amid politically charged narratives.
