**Trump Taps Elise Stefanik as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Sparking Reactions from Muslim Advocacy Group**

Donald Trump, the President-elect, has selected New York Representative Elise Stefanik for the role of U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations. Trump expressed his confidence in Stefanik's capabilities, highlighting her strength, intelligence, and staunch America First stance. "I am honored to nominate Chairwoman Elise Stefanik to serve in my Cabinet as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations," Trump said in a statement to the New York Post.

Stefanik, who serves as the House Republican Conference Chair, has been a steadfast ally of Trump in the House. Known for her formidable questioning during a hearing on antisemitism amid protests against Israel's actions in Gaza, Stefanik's nomination was praised by Trump. She expressed her gratitude in a statement to the Post, indicating her eagerness to gain the Senate's support.

The nomination has provoked a response from the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR). Edward Ahmed Mitchell, CAIR's deputy executive director, emphasized the necessity for Trump to choose foreign policy officials who prioritize American interests over those of any foreign government. Mitchell highlighted concerns over Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's administration, urging Trump to avoid officials with hawkish stances akin to Nikki Haley and Mike Pompeo, both of whom Trump confirmed last week would not be invited to his administration.

Trump's recent victory over former Vice President Kamala Harris followed contentious debates with Arab and Muslim communities over President Joe Biden's support for Israel. Trump, during his campaign, had urged Biden to allow Netanyahu to "finish the job" in Gaza, promising his own strategy for peace if re-elected. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu echoed a similar sentiment, revealing that he had conversed with Trump multiple times recently and that they share views on the Iranian threat.

Stefanik's future as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations will now hinge on the approval of the United States Senate, amidst a backdrop of international relations and domestic concerns.