a poke in the eye

Something minor but conspicuous that ultimately serves as an insult, rebuke, or detriment to someone or something. This new tax hike will be a poke in the eye to thousands of citizens who are already struggling to make ends meet. The international sanctions amount to a poke in the eye for the country, which still maintains ownership over the disputed lands. The singer's unscripted comments served as a poke in the eye to the awards ceremony, making it clear that she sided with the artists who had accused it of discrimination.