Trump nominates Mike Huckabee for US ambassador to Israel

Former Arkansas governor and Republican presidential candidate Mike Huckabee is President Trump's pick for US ambassador to Israel.

The White House announced the nomination on Thursday, July 19, 2023. If confirmed by the Senate, Huckabee would replace David Friedman, who has held the post since 2017.

Huckabee, 67, is a close ally of Trump and has been a vocal supporter of Israel. He has visited Israel several times and has spoken out against the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement.

Huckabee's nomination has been met with mixed reactions. Some have praised his qualifications and experience, while others have criticized his lack of diplomatic experience.

The Senate Foreign Relations Committee will hold a hearing on Huckabee's nomination in the coming weeks. The full Senate must then vote to confirm him.