Trump Selects Mike Huckabee as US Ambassador to Israel

Former Arkansas Governor and Presidential Candidate to Represent US in Jerusalem

Former Arkansas Governor and Republican presidential candidate Mike Huckabee has been nominated by President Donald Trump to serve as the next United States Ambassador to Israel, the White House announced Thursday.

Huckabee, a longtime supporter of Israel, has been an outspoken critic of the Obama administration's handling of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He has also been a vocal opponent of the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement, which seeks to pressure Israel through economic and political means.

Huckabee's Nomination Faces Scrutiny

Huckabee's nomination has been met with mixed reactions, with some critics expressing concern over his lack of diplomatic experience and his past comments on Islam.

In a 2015 interview with Breitbart News, Huckabee said that Muslims "have an agenda" to "establish Sharia law" in the United States. He also said that he believes Islam is "a religion of war and violence."

These comments have drawn criticism from some Muslim leaders, who say they are offensive and inaccurate.

Huckabee Defends His Record

Huckabee has defended his comments on Islam, saying that he was simply expressing his concerns about the spread of radical Islam.

He has also said that he is committed to working with all Israelis and Palestinians to achieve a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

Senate Confirmation Expected

Huckabee's nomination must be confirmed by the Senate before he can take up his post in Jerusalem.

The Senate Foreign Relations Committee is scheduled to hold a hearing on Huckabee's nomination on January 18.