The Queens Jewish Link (QJL) enthusiastically welcomes the nomination of Governor Mike Huckabee of Arkansas as the next U.S. Ambassador to Israel, pending Senate confirmation. On February 18, Governor Huckabee, a lifelong friend of the Jewish State, was awarded a Certificate of Competency under Section 304(a)(4) of the Foreign Service Act, formally affirming his qualifications before the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations.
A true chaver of klal Yisrael, Governor Huckabee has been a steadfast ally of the Jewish people, with a profound appreciation for the unbreakable bond between the United States and Eretz Yisrael. This relationship is rooted in Torah values, religious freedom, and a shared commitment to justice, morality, and security.
Political landscapes are shaped by decisive moments, and Governor Huckabee’s nomination as U.S. Ambassador to Israel is a pivotal moment in strengthening U.S.-Israel relations. The 2024 election ushered in a renewed commitment to principled leadership, reflecting an administration focused on common-sense governance and strong international alliances.
Governor Huckabee’s personal bond with Eretz Yisrael spans over five decades, beginning with his first visit as a 17-year-old in 1973, just months before the Yom Kippur War. Witnessing the resilience of the Israeli people left an indelible mark on him, cementing his lifelong commitment to the Jewish state. At a recent Israel Heritage Foundation (IHF) event in his honor, Governor Huckabee reflected on his nomination after receiving the Friend of Israel Award, calling it 'the greatest thrill and culmination of a lifetime of love for the land of Israel and the Jewish people.' He emphasized that his move to Israel with his wife, Janet, would not be "for a tour but for a task."
His fierce advocacy for the Jewish homeland and his dedication to strengthening the U.S.-Israel partnership make him uniquely suited for this crucial position. Governor Huckabee has actively championed Israel’s right to self-defense and played a vocal role in recognizing Yerushalayim Ir HaKodesh as its eternal capital. He has consistently highlighted Israel’s transformation from a barren desert into a thriving, modern nation, crediting its growth to both ingenuity and divine providence.
Huckabee has highlighted Israel’s groundbreaking contributions to global innovation, from the Iron Dome missile defense system and cybersecurity advancements to revolutionary medical technologies like the PillCam and cutting-edge water desalination. These breakthroughs have strengthened global security, advanced medical science, and transformed infrastructure worldwide. "Many Americans are unaware of the gifts Israel gives to us... things that we take for granted and probably arrogantly think we created. The truth is we took them from our ally Israel, and our lives are better because of it."
At the IHF event, Rabbi David Katz, IHF Executive Director, praised Huckabee’s "passion and love for Israel" and noted how Israel’s Chief Rabbis and Members of Knesset were eager to meet with the incoming ambassador. Dr. Joseph Frager, IHF Executive Vice President, stressed the necessity of eliminating threats posed by Hamas and Iran to ensure Israel’s security and global stability. Other speakers, including Jonathan Burkan, Dr. Stephen Soloway, Kenneth Abramowitz, and Harley Lippman, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for strong leadership in the region.
A vocal critic of Iran, Huckabee has argued that regime change—whether internal or external—is crucial to regional peace. He believes that curbing Iran’s destabilizing influence will enable Israel to be seen by its neighbors not as an adversary, but as a beacon of peace and prosperity.
A man of deep faith, Huckabee has consistently highlighted the spiritual significance of Israel’s survival and success. He has pointed to Israel’s improbable victories on the battlefield as evidence of divine intervention, declaring, "They didn’t win through military power alone, but because they understood that defeat would mean not only the loss of land, but of their lives, heritage, and divinely promised homeland. Hashem’s hand has undoubtedly guided His people in His land."
Huckabee has also spoken candidly about the irrational nature of antisemitism, urging Jews to recognize it as a sign of their moral and spiritual strength. Some see his perspective as a call for spiritual resilience, while others argue that antisemitism must also be confronted through political and legal means. Nonetheless, his steadfast support for Israel and the Jewish people remains widely acknowledged. "The hatred directed at the Jewish people is, at its core, a rejection of divine truth and morality," he explained. "Those who rebel against Hashem’s authority despise those who uphold His values. The Jewish people, by standing firm in their faith, serve as a beacon of righteousness in an increasingly confused world."
Governor Huckabee’s distinguished record includes serving as the 44th Governor of Arkansas, hosting the influential television program 'Huckabee' on TBN, and authoring multiple bestselling books. His long-standing dedication to Israel has earned him numerous prestigious accolades, including the Defender Award from the Zionist Organization of America, the Israel Allies Award from the Israel Allies Foundation, the Winston Churchill Lifetime Achievement Award from the Faith & Freedom Coalition, and the Friend of Israel Award from the Israel Heritage Foundation.
The QJL extends our heartfelt brachah to Governor Huckabee for hatzlachah in this esteemed role. His leadership will fortify the U.S.-Israel alliance, enhancing security, economic prosperity, and diplomatic collaboration. May his tenure usher in a new era of peace and deeper strategic cooperation between the two nations.
On February 11, 2025, President Donald J. Trump formally submitted Governor Huckabee’s nomination for Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the State of Israel, under the Department of State to the U.S. Senate, where it was referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations for consideration.
By Shabsie Saphirstein
