President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Mike Huckabee, the former Governor of Arkansas, as the next United States Ambassador to Israel.
Announced in a statement on November 12, 2024, the nomination highlights Huckabee’s deep-rooted support for Israel and his commitment to strengthening ties between the two nations.
In the statement, Trump described Huckabee as a “highly respected former Governor of Arkansas,” praising his years of public service and leadership.
“Mike has been a great public servant, Governor, and Leader in Faith for many years,” Trump noted, adding that Huckabee’s dedication to Israel has earned him widespread admiration.
Trump emphasised Huckabee’s connection with Israel, stating, “He loves Israel, and the people of Israel love him.”
The former president expressed confidence that Huckabee’s role as ambassador would contribute to advancing peace efforts in the Middle East.
“Mike will work tirelessly to bring about Peace in the Middle East!” Trump declared.
Huckabee is no stranger to Trump’s circle. A former Arkansas governor, he ran for the Republican presidential nomination in 2008 and 2016, the latter placing him against Trump, who ultimately won.
Huckabee’s daughter, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, served as Trump’s press secretary from 2017 to 2019.
Known for his evangelical Christian views, Huckabee is a vocal advocate for Israel and has argued that the Israeli-occupied West Bank should be recognised as part of Israel, referring to it by its biblical names, “Judea and Samaria.”
He has consistently rejected terms like “settlement” and “occupation,” which he sees as politically biased.
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