In a provocative interview that has ignited significant debate, US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee asserted to podcaster Tucker Carlson that Israel possesses a biblical right to take over the entire Middle East, or at least a substantial portion of it. The conversation, which aired on Friday, delved into interpretations of Old Testament scripture within the US Christian nationalist movement, highlighting a contentious perspective on territorial claims.
Biblical Justification for Territorial Expansion
During the interview, Carlson referenced a specific biblical verse where God promises Abram that his descendants will inherit land "from the wadi of Egypt to the great river, the Euphrates." Carlson noted that this area, in modern geographical terms, would encompass nearly the entire Middle East, including Israel, Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, and large parts of Saudi Arabia and Iraq. Huckabee, while somewhat moderating this view, acknowledged it would represent "a big piece of land" and emphasized that "Israel is a land that God gave, through Abraham, to a people that he chose."
Huckabee's Controversial Statement
When pressed by Carlson on whether Israel has the right to claim this territory, Huckabee responded unequivocally, stating, "It would be fine if they took it all." This remark underscores a hardline pro-Israel stance that aligns with traditional conservative positions, yet it diverges from more mainstream diplomatic narratives. Huckabee, a Trump administration appointee and former Arkansas governor, has long been a vocal supporter of Israeli policies, but this explicit endorsement of expansive territorial acquisition marks a significant escalation in rhetoric.
Context of Carlson's Israel Trip
The interview was conducted during Carlson's visit to Israel, a trip that itself generated headlines due to Carlson's claims of "bizarre" treatment at Ben Gurion airport. He alleged he was detained and interrogated, but Israeli and US officials have refuted this, stating he underwent routine security questioning. The Israel Airports Authority issued a statement clarifying that "Tucker Carlson and his entourage were not detained, delayed, or interrogated," while former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett criticized Carlson as "chickenshit" and a "phony" in a social media post.
Political Repercussions and Reactions
Huckabee's comments come at a time when Carlson has increasingly questioned US support for Israel, positioning himself on the fringe of the Make America Great Again movement. In response to the airport controversy, Huckabee posted on social media, emphasizing that "EVERYONE who comes in/out of Israel has passports checked & routinely asked security questions," aligning with official accounts. This incident highlights the growing tensions within conservative circles regarding Israel policy, with Huckabee representing a steadfast, traditional allyship, while Carlson's skepticism reflects a shifting dynamic in some right-wing factions.
The broader implications of Huckabee's statements extend beyond mere theological debate, touching on sensitive geopolitical issues in the Middle East. By invoking biblical rights to justify territorial claims, Huckabee has stirred controversy that resonates with ongoing conflicts and diplomatic efforts in the region. As discussions around US-Israel relations continue to evolve, such remarks from a high-profile envoy could influence public perception and policy debates, underscoring the complex interplay between religion, politics, and international affairs.
