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Tucker Carlson Detained in Israel Amid Controversial Interview

2/21/2026

Center

Carlson Detained in Israel

Tucker Carlson reported being detained in Israel after interviewing U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee, claiming airport security took their passports and questioned them.
Carlson and his team have since left Israel, while the U.S. embassy denied any detention, stating they only coordinated his arrival.
Huckabee announced the interview to counter “misinformation” and address media narratives.
Carlson has faced criticism for his views on Israel, being labeled "Antisemite of the Year" in 2025 by Stop Antisemitism.

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Huckabee Supports Expansion

Mike Huckabee, U.S. ambassador to Israel, said he would not object to Israel expanding from the Nile to the Euphrates, citing a biblical right.
The remarks, made during a discussion with Tucker Carlson, drew backlash for tying Israel's legitimacy to scripture.
He later said the remark was hyperbolic but left open expansion if Israel faced an attack, drawing ongoing criticism over Palestinian rights and Jonathan Pollard, a convicted spy.

History

Historical Context

The U.S. recognized Jerusalem as Israel's capital on December 6, 2017, a shift from its previous stance that the city's status should be resolved through negotiations. This decision, supported by figures like Mike Huckabee, sparked global protests and highlighted ongoing tensions in Israeli-Palestinian relations, where both sides claim the city as their capital amid complex historical and religious disputes.

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Carlson Detained in Israel

Tucker Carlson reported being detained in Israel after interviewing U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee, claiming airport security took their passports and questioned them.
Carlson and his team have since left Israel, while the U.S. embassy denied any detention, stating they only coordinated his arrival.
Huckabee announced the interview to counter “misinformation” and address media narratives.
Carlson has faced criticism for his views on Israel, being labeled "Antisemite of the Year" in 2025 by Stop Antisemitism.

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