Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has publicly criticized Tucker Carlson, a popular US talk show host, following Carlson's brief visit to Israel. Bennett, who served as Israel's Prime Minister from 2021 to 2022, called Carlson a "chickenshit" and a "phony," implying that Carlson's passing visit and superficial engagement give him no grounds to comment on Israeli issues. This statement came after Carlson, known for his conservative views and critical stance on Israel’s influence in US politics, opted to stay within the confines of the airport during his trip, seemingly avoiding a deeper interaction with the country's realities.

During his visit, Carlson was primarily in Israel to conduct an interview with the current US ambassador, Mike Huckabee. While at Ben Gurion Airport, he engaged with social media by sharing a photo on X (formerly Twitter) that showcased his arrival and his colleague. However, Bennett's harsh remarks revealed a broader sentiment among some Israeli politicians who feel that foreign commentators often disregard the complexities of Israeli society when forming opinions or critiques. This highlights a tension where prominent figures from different countries can clash over perceptions and representations exported through media.

This incident raises questions about media responsibility and the expectations of foreign commentators, especially when discussing sensitive geopolitical issues. Carlson's admission of facing hostility in Israel further complicates the narrative, suggesting that even brief encounters can be laden with tensions that resonate beyond individual interactions. The fallout from this exchange may lead to more confrontations in public discourse regarding how media figures report on foreign events and the authenticity required in representing another nation's culture and politics.