US Ambassador Mike Huckabee Faces Backlash Over Israel Remarks
US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee has ignited a diplomatic firestorm with comments suggesting it would be acceptable for Israel to control vast territories in the Middle East. In an interview published on Friday, Huckabee engaged in a discussion with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson about biblical interpretations of land promised to Abraham, which he indicated could encompass much of the region.
Controversial Statements on Territorial Claims
During the exchange, Carlson outlined that this biblical promise would include areas such as Israel, Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, and significant portions of Saudi Arabia and Iraq. When asked if Israel had a right to control this entire area, Huckabee responded, "It would be fine if they took it all." He clarified that Israel is not seeking expansion but emphasized its right to security in its current holdings.
The remarks have provoked immediate condemnation from multiple Arab nations and organizations. Egypt's foreign ministry denounced them as a "blatant violation" of international law, asserting that Israel holds no sovereignty over occupied Palestinian or other Arab lands. Saudi Arabia labeled the comments "extremist rhetoric" and called for the US State Department to clarify its stance.
Regional and International Reactions
The backlash extended to Kuwait, Oman, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and the League of Arab States, which criticized the statements for inflaming religious and national sentiments. There has been no immediate response from Israel or the United States regarding the controversy.
Huckabee, an evangelical Christian appointed by former President Donald Trump, is a known supporter of Israel and the West Bank settlement movement. He has historically opposed a two-state solution and, in a previous interview, disputed the term "Palestinians" for Arab descendants in British-controlled Palestine.
Historical Context and Current Tensions
Since its establishment in 1948, Israel's borders have remained undefined, shifting through wars, annexations, and agreements. Recent conflicts have exacerbated territorial disputes:
- In Gaza, Israel controls over half the enclave despite a ceasefire, with troops withdrawn to a buffer zone but no timeline for further withdrawal.
- In Syria, Israel seized a demilitarized buffer zone in 2024, citing temporary security measures.
- In the occupied West Bank, Israel has expanded settlements and legalized outposts, deepening its control.
These actions, coupled with Huckabee's comments, highlight ongoing tensions in the region, with Arab nations urging diplomatic restraint and adherence to international norms.
