Senate Hearing Draws Protest and Scrutiny
Mike Huckabee, former Arkansas governor and evangelical leader, faced a tense Senate confirmation hearing on March 25 as protesters repeatedly interrupted proceedings. Opponents criticized his support for Israeli settlements and disregard for Palestinian statehood. Huckabee clarified that he would represent President Donald Trump’s views, not his own, if confirmed as U.S. ambassador to Israel.
Filmmaker’s Assault Highlights Regional Tensions
Just days before the hearing, Hamdan Ballal, co-director of the acclaimed documentary No Other Land, was abducted and beaten by Israeli settlers in the West Bank, according to eyewitnesses and co-director Yuval Abraham. Ballal was allegedly detained by Israeli forces after calling for medical help and held overnight at a military base. He was later released, injured.
Evangelical Zionism Shapes Huckabee’s Stance
Huckabee, a long-time supporter of Jewish settlements and a denier of Palestinian statehood, has referred to the West Bank as “Judea and Samaria.” Despite his prior comments, he emphasized that he would follow the president’s lead as an ambassador. He lauded Trump’s policies, including the Abraham Accords, the Jerusalem embassy move, and the recognition of the Golan Heights.
Sharp Criticism from Foreign Policy Experts
Critics raised concerns about Huckabee’s ability to navigate complex geopolitics. Former Biden official Lily Greenberg Call warned that his confirmation would signal U.S. alignment with religious extremism. JStreet president Jeremy Ben-Ami criticized Huckabee’s “extremist ideology” and indifference toward Palestinians, calling his nomination dangerous for regional peace.
Religious Supporters Rally Behind Huckabee
Despite criticism, Huckabee received strong backing from conservative religious groups. A letter, reportedly signed by 500 faith leaders, praised his bridge-building between Christians and Jews. Rabbi Tuly Weisz of Israel365 Action called him the “ideal candidate,” citing shared values between Israel and America rooted in biblical beliefs.
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Huckabee says he’ll do Trump’s bidding as ambassador to Israel
Photo by Levi Meir Clancy on Unsplash
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