Huckabee Criticizes Misunderstandings in U.S.-Israel Relationship

You can now listen to Fox News articles. Recently, Mike Huckabee, the U.S. Ambassador to Israel, addressed growing skepticism among some conservatives about the U.S.-Israel alliance. He attributes this to what he describes as “biblical ignorance” and a misinterpretation of the “America First” ideology.

Speaking before the 15th anniversary of the U.S. Israel Education Association, Huckabee dismissed the idea that valuing America means distancing from allies. He believes supporting Israel aligns with U.S. interests and with the religious beliefs of many Christians.

“When I look at the things on the right, what I see is that there’s biblical ignorance,” Huckabee remarked. “People who say, ‘God has no longer got a promise that he’s keeping to the Jewish people.’ I’m thinking ‘well, that’s news to God because he doesn’t break a promise.'”

Huckabee’s statement highlights that misconceptions about religious commitments lead to resentment towards Israel. A former governor of Arkansas and ordained Baptist minister, Huckabee draws from both his political and religious backgrounds.

He countered claims that Christians cannot worship freely in Israel. Sharing a personal anecdote, Huckabee told Fox News Digital he actively participates in his church’s praise band every Sunday without issue.

In recent times, skepticism and hostility towards Israel have emerged in some conservative media outlets. Figures like Joe Rogan have described Israel as guilty of severe actions in Gaza.

Beyond theological discussions, Huckabee expressed concern over misunderstandings related to “America First,” cautioning that some view it as embracing isolationism.

“There’s another thing on the right that I’m concerned about,” Huckabee said. “People who say, ‘I’m an America First person.’ I say ‘I am too.’ I was MAGA before anybody knew what MAGA was. America First has never meant America only.”

Huckabee clarified that America’s interests extend beyond its borders. He cited Iran as a long-term threat, noting its regime’s continued hostility toward the U.S.

He emphasized the dangers posed by Iranian proxies and argued that the U.S. cannot afford to overlook international threats.

“They’ve never changed their message that they want to murder us,” Huckabee explained. “So, when people tell you for 47 years their goal is to kill you, you’re pretty stupid if you don’t pay attention to that, and even more stupid if you do nothing about it,” he added.

This perspective connects Huckabee’s understanding of “America First” as compatible with engaging international matters, especially those concerning national security.