It was not "courageous" of Robertson, at all, in fact it was easy. It only required that he not stop and think before he spoke.
Of what benefit, and to whom, could Robertson's comments have served, no matter how honest and heartfelt they were? They did not even serve to advance the professed motive behind them - supporting the territorial integrity of Israel. To "act on your principals" is not in and of itself a principled act, in the abscence of due consideration for the affects of the specific act you choose. It is part of why Robertson did not go far in the presidential primaries. Good intentions are not good enough reasons.
For me it is not a question or problem about who he offended, but who did he help? No one.
"but who did he help"
He helped the truth. This world sees very little of that because of its unbelief and cycicism.