CNN guest throws ringing phone across room in awkward on-air interview

A television host was left stunned this week after a guest flung his mobile phone across the studio live on air.

The bizarre incident occurred on Wednesday when retired US Army General Wesley Clark appeared on CNN to discuss the situation in Iraq following an attack on the US embassy in capital city Baghdad.

Speaking with host Jim Sciutto, the former Allied NATO commander shared his opinions on the Government's response to the crisis, reports news.com.au.

"I'm glad we used diplomacy. I'm glad to see the Iraqi Government being able to get its security forces engaged in this point," he said.

"But this is like by the Iranians – this is like landing a left jab in a 12-round boxing match. I mean, this is just one more punch. So they've taken out and attacked some Saudi oil facilities. They were put back in place."

General Clark was then interrupted when his own mobile phone began ringing, leaving him visibly distracted.

But instead of ignoring it or silencing the device, the 75-year-old fumbled for it – before launching it across the room and out of view while still staring down the barrel of the camera.

General Wesley Clark flung his mobile phone across the room during a live interview. Photo / CNN

The host laughs in response before General Clark apologises.

"Sorry about that," he said.

"That is the best reaction to a ring I've seen on the air. Nicely done, General," Mr Sciutto replied.

"Thank you. They caught it, too," General Clark said, referring to an in-studio staffer.

A short clip of the incident was later shared on social media, with Twitter users jumping at the chance to crack a few jokes at the military expert's expense.

"There is a silence option, old man!" one Twitter user wrote, while another said: "Someone might want to show him how to tap 'ignore'."

"Couldn't figure out how to turn off the ringer? OK, Boomer," another posted.

General Clark spent 34 years in the US Army, receiving a string of accolades including military decorations, honorary knighthoods and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

He commanded Operation Allied Force in the Kosovo War during his term as the Supreme Allied Commander Europe of NATO from 1997 to 2000, the year he retired from the military.

In 2003 he announced his candidacy for the Democratic nomination for president before dropping out of the race in 2004.