Commentator issues apology as embassy and airport officials reject detention narrative.
American conservative commentator Tucker Carlson has publicly retracted claims he made suggesting that Israeli President Isaac Herzog had visited Jeffrey Epstein’s private island.
During an interview with U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee, Carlson referenced what he described as Justice Department disclosures, asserting that Herzog was “apparently” on Epstein’s island. Huckabee immediately rejected the suggestion, stating he was unaware of any connection.
In a one-minute video posted Saturday, Carlson clarified his remarks after receiving what he described as a detailed and unequivocal denial from Herzog’s office.
“I want to say clearly that I’m sorry to imply that I knew something I didn’t know,” Carlson said. He acknowledged that Herzog’s office denied any contact, communication, or relationship with Epstein.
Carlson emphasized that such a strong denial deserved serious consideration, adding that there is “nothing worse than impugning the reputation of an innocent man.”
Email Reference and Protest Context
Carlson explained that his earlier remarks referred to a 2014 email attributed to Epstein mentioning Herzog, which was reportedly included in Justice Department disclosures. However, he conceded that referencing the email did not confirm that Herzog ever visited the island.
His network subsequently deleted a clip of the exchange discussing the matter.
Airport “Detention” Dispute at Ben Gurion Airport
Carlson also previously claimed he was detained upon arrival in Israel following his interview with Huckabee.
Both the U.S. Embassy in Israel and the Israel Airports Authority denied those claims. Officials stated that Carlson underwent routine passport control questions consistent with standard procedures, and that any private conversation took place in a VIP lounge solely for privacy reasons.
Video footage circulated on social media appeared to show Carlson smiling, signing paperwork, posing for a photo with a security officer, and leaving without incident.
Clarification Amid Controversy
The episode highlights how rapidly claims involving high-profile figures can escalate — and how formal denials and factual clarifications can reshape public narratives.
Carlson’s retraction marks a notable reversal, underscoring the importance of verifying sensitive allegations before presenting them as established fact.
