In a 53-46 Senate vote that largely followed party lines, Mike Huckabee has been confirmed as the next U.S. Ambassador to Israel.
The former Arkansas governor and longtime Israel supporter will represent America’s interests during a critical time for Middle East peace.
His confirmation signals President Donald Trump’s commitment to strengthening the U.S.-Israel relationship despite Democrat opposition.
Huckabee, a Baptist minister and conservative commentator, secured his confirmation with strong Republican support and the backing of just one Democrat, Senator John Fetterman.
President Trump announced Huckabee’s nomination following the election, highlighting the former governor’s deep connections to Israel dating back to his first visit in 1973.
“He loves Israel and the people of Israel, and likewise, the people of Israel love him. Mike will work tirelessly to bring about Peace in the Middle East,” President Trump said of his choice for the critical diplomatic post.
Huckabee’s appointment comes at a crucial moment as the administration works to address ongoing regional conflicts.
These include the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza and tensions with Hezbollah in Lebanon.
Huckabee’s unwavering support for Israel and extensive experience in the region—having led approximately 10,000 visitors to Israel since 1981—uniquely position him for this role.
🚨 JUST IN: Mike Huckabee confirmed as Ambassador to Israel, 53-46. pic.twitter.com/3V7bMoi5LC
— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) April 9, 2025
Democrats and left-wing groups opposed Huckabee’s nomination, citing his conservative positions on Israeli-Palestinian issues.
The new ambassador has previously referred to the West Bank as “Judea and Samaria,” terminology aligned with right-wing Israeli perspectives, and has expressed skepticism about Palestinian statehood claims.
During his confirmation hearings, Huckabee assured lawmakers he would prioritize the president’s policies over his personal views.
Huckabee, an evangelical Christian, believes in a biblical covenant granting Jews a divine claim to the land.
The confirmation comes as President Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu navigate several challenging policy differences.
During Netanyahu’s recent White House visit, the president maintained tariffs on Israeli imports and announced upcoming U.S.-Iran talks regarding the Iranian nuclear program.
Despite these tensions, Huckabee’s appointment demonstrates the administration’s commitment to maintaining strong U.S.-Israel relations.
His decades of outspoken support for Israel’s security and sovereignty align perfectly with the president’s broader Middle East strategy of standing firmly with America’s closest regional ally.
With ongoing conflicts in Gaza and tensions throughout the region, Ambassador Huckabee steps into his role at a moment when American leadership and Israel’s security concerns are intertwined.
