Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee Nominated as US Ambassador to Israel by President-elect Trump
ICARO Media Group
Trump lauded Huckabee’s longstanding dedication to public service and his strong bond with Israel, highlighting his reputation as a steadfast leader and a friend of the Israeli people. "Mike will work tirelessly to bring about Peace in the Middle East!" Trump emphasized in a statement.
Huckabee's nomination comes as a significant move, considering his daughter, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, served as Trump's press secretary during his first term. Huckabee has consistently supported Israel, asserting its claims to the West Bank and other disputed areas. His advocacy includes notable actions such as laying a cornerstone for a new neighborhood in one of the largest Israeli settlements in the West Bank in 2017.
The former governor has remained actively engaged with Israel, having led a tour in the country for Senior Adult Travel Inc. as recently as May 2024. Huckabee's support extends beyond political gestures; he has frequently used Biblical terms like "Judea and Samaria" instead of the West Bank, rejecting terms he feels undermine Israel's connection to the territory. “There is no such thing as an occupation,” Huckabee declared, emphasizing his perspective on the legitimacy of Israeli communities in these areas.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is likely to view Huckabee's appointment positively, seeing it as the culmination of efforts to strengthen relationships with American Evangelical Christians. Huckabee's passionate support for Israel and his familiarity with the region present him as a strong candidate for the ambassadorial role.