Mike Huckabee as US ambassador to Israel: A dangerous choice

The potential appointment of former Arkansas governor and conservative commentator Mike Huckabee as the United States Ambassador to Israel has sparked controversy among policymakers and experts. Huckabee, a staunch evangelical and longtime supporter of Israel, might seem like a natural fit for the role at first glance. However, his extreme ideological positions, inflammatory rhetoric, and lack of diplomatic experience make him an unsuitable candidate for such a sensitive and crucial position.

A History of Extremism

Huckabee has long positioned himself as an unwavering ally of Israel, but his approach has often been more detrimental than beneficial. He has consistently rejected the notion of a two-state solution, a long-standing U.S. policy goal, instead advocating for full Israeli sovereignty over the West Bank. Such views are not only at odds with international law but also risk further destabilizing an already volatile region. His staunch opposition to any form of Palestinian statehood could undermine U.S. credibility as a mediator in future peace negotiations.

Moreover, Huckabee’s past comments on Israel have been inflammatory, comparing negotiations with Palestinians to “negotiating with Hitler” and suggesting that those advocating for a Palestinian state want to “destroy Israel.” Such rhetoric is counterproductive and undermines the delicate diplomatic balance necessary to maintain stability in the region.

Lack of Diplomatic Experience

Unlike previous ambassadors to Israel who have possessed extensive foreign policy credentials, Huckabee’s background is in domestic politics and media punditry. His tenure as governor of Arkansas provided him with no direct experience in international diplomacy, let alone the nuanced and high-stakes world of Middle Eastern geopolitics. In contrast, past ambassadors, such as David Friedman or Dan Shapiro, brought legal expertise and deep policy knowledge to the role. Huckabee’s appointment would signal a shift toward an ambassador driven by ideological fervor rather than pragmatic diplomacy.

Evangelical Influence and the Risk of Theocratic Policy

Huckabee’s political worldview is deeply rooted in evangelical Christian theology, which often aligns with right-wing Israeli policies. While support for Israel among evangelicals is not inherently problematic, Huckabee’s approach frames Israeli policy through a religious lens rather than strategic interests. He has frequently tied his support for Israel to biblical prophecy, arguing that Israeli sovereignty over its biblical homeland is divinely mandated. This perspective risks entangling U.S. foreign policy with religious ideology, rather than basing it on the national interest and realpolitik considerations.

Alienating Key Allies

One of the critical responsibilities of the U.S. Ambassador to Israel is maintaining strong ties not only with the Israeli government but also with other regional and international stakeholders. Huckabee’s polarizing views on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict could erode U.S. relations with key Arab nations that have recently sought rapprochement with Israel through the Abraham Accords. His appointment might also strain U.S.-European relations, as many EU nations remain committed to a two-state solution. A more measured, diplomatic approach would serve American interests far better than Huckabee’s hardline stance.

While Huckabee’s unwavering support for Israel might appeal to certain factions within the U.S. and Israeli political spheres, his lack of diplomatic experience, extreme positions, and history of inflammatory rhetoric make him an ill-advised choice for U.S. Ambassador to Israel. At a time when the U.S. must navigate complex geopolitical challenges, the appointment of a seasoned diplomat with a balanced and strategic approach would better serve both American and Israeli interests. Huckabee’s nomination would not just be a mistake—it would be a liability for regional stability and U.S. foreign policy at large