The Economic Times

Was Tucker Carlson detained in Israel? What really happened at Ben Gurion Airport during Mike Huckabee interview?

Was Tucker Carlson detained in Israel? Flight tracking data confirms Tucker Carlson spent exactly 184 minutes at Ben Gurion Airport on February 18, 2026. After a high-stakes interview with Ambassador Mike Huckabee, Carlson claimed he was detained by Israeli security. However, the U.S. Embassy and airport authorities clarified this was a routine passport check and secondary screening. Carlson never officially entered Israel, departing via private jet three hours later to return home.