(DailyChive.com) – Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee is set to play a key role in the next chapter of U.S.-Israel relations. On Tuesday, former President Donald Trump announced that Huckabee would be his choice for U.S. ambassador to Israel if he wins the 2024 election. Trump praised Huckabee as a dedicated public servant and a strong supporter of Israel, saying he would work “tirelessly” to promote peace in the Middle East Trump nominates Mike Huckabee as U.S. ambassador to Israel.
Huckabee, a former Baptist minister, has long been an advocate for closer U.S.-Israel ties. He’s taken multiple trips to the region and has been outspoken in his support for Israeli policies. Huckabee has also expressed skepticism about the Palestinian statehood movement, drawing criticism for his remarks. In 2008, he said, “There’s no such thing as a Palestinian,” a comment he has since repeated in interviews Mike Huckabee’s past remarks on Palestine resurface amid nomination.
Trump’s announcement comes as he continues to assemble a team of staunch Israel supporters. Huckabee joins names like Florida Senator Marco Rubio, who has been tapped to serve as Secretary of State, and Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, who is slated to be the next U.N. ambassador.
Huckabee served as governor of Arkansas from 1996 to 2007 and ran for president twice, winning the Iowa caucuses in 2008. Between his political campaigns, he hosted a popular Fox News show, “Huckabee,” where he often discussed his strong faith and conservative values. His daughter, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, is currently the governor of Arkansas and a former White House press secretary under Trump.
Sanders celebrated her father’s nomination, sharing her excitement on social media. She recalled visiting Israel with her father as a child and said the experience had a lasting impact on her. “There’s no one who loves Israel more than him,” she wrote.
Israeli leaders have welcomed Huckabee’s potential appointment. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar expressed optimism about working with him, calling him a “longstanding friend of Israel.” David Friedman, Trump’s former ambassador to Israel, also voiced his support, calling Huckabee “a dear friend” who will excel in the role Trump selects Mike Huckabee to strengthen U.S.-Israel ties.
As Huckabee steps into this new spotlight, his decades of experience and deep ties to Israel may prove critical in shaping U.S. foreign policy in the region.
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