U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee has asserted that skepticism toward the U.S.-Israel relationship on the right is fueled by "biblical ignorance" and a misinterpretation of the "America First" principle. He contends that genuine "America First" ideals do not equate to isolationism but rather necessitate strong alliances.
Huckabee, who previously served as the governor of Arkansas and was ordained as a Baptist minister, shared his views in an interview with Fox News Digital. He stated that some individuals questioning the U.S. alliance with Israel do so because they believe "God has no longer got a promise that he's keeping to the Jewish people." Huckabee countered this notion, emphasizing, "If God broke his promise to the Jews, then what makes me, as a Christian, think that he won't break his promise to me?"
He pushed back against the idea that Christians face restrictions or are unwelcome in Israel for worship, noting that he personally plays music in his church's praise band every Sunday without issue. "nobody throws a chair at me," he remarked.
The ambassador addressed the evolution of the "America First" movement, asserting, "America First has never meant America only." He explained that U.S. interests extend beyond its borders, particularly in confronting adversarial threats. Huckabee cited Iran's long-standing calls for "death to America" and the actions of its proxies globally as examples of why the U.S. must remain engaged internationally. "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 said.
Huckabee's remarks come amidst a period where some conservative media figures and commentators have expressed growing skepticism or outright hostility toward Israel. He highlighted figures like Joe Rogan, who recently stated that Israel was guilty of "genocide" in Gaza, as indicative of a broader trend he believes is misguided. The ambassador's perspective is informed by his dual background in politics and his religious convictions, which he sees as integral to understanding the U.S.-Israel connection.