In a significant move emphasizing his administration’s support for Israel, President-elect Donald Trump announced on Tuesday that former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee would be appointed as the next U.S. Ambassador to Israel. Huckabee, a strong advocate for Israeli policies, particularly the expansion of settlements in the West Bank, has long been a staunch supporter of Israel’s government. Trump, in his statement, expressed high regard for Huckabee, calling him a “highly respected” public servant who is deeply committed to Israel. The president-elect emphasized Huckabee’s relationship with the people of Israel, noting, “Mike will work tirelessly to bring peace to the Middle East.”
Huckabee’s appointment signals a continuation of Trump’s unwavering support for Israel, which was evident throughout his first term, notably through actions such as the 2018 relocation of the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem. Huckabee has been an outspoken proponent of Israeli settlements in the West Bank and has previously rejected the two-state solution in favor of Israeli control over the occupied territories. His views, including referring to the West Bank as “Judea and Samaria,” align with Trump’s policies that strongly favor Israeli territorial expansion.
This development comes amidst growing tensions in the region. Huckabee condemned the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, describing it as “horrific” and more brutal than past atrocities, further emphasizing his commitment to Israel’s security. His stance on the Palestinian issue remains firm, rejecting the concept of a Palestinian state and pushing instead for the recognition of Israel’s sovereignty over contested areas.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appointed Yechiel Leiter as Israel’s new Ambassador to the United States. Leiter, known for advocating for the expansion of settlements and Israeli sovereignty in the West Bank, is expected to further solidify Israel’s stance on territorial control. His appointment and Huckabee’s selection highlight a growing alignment between U.S. and Israeli policies on the Palestinian issue.
This diplomatic shift is expected to escalate tensions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, particularly with international bodies such as the International Court of Justice, which recently declared Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories as illegal. As both Huckabee and Leiter take office, their appointments could have lasting impacts on the Middle East’s political landscape.
