US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee has sparked debate after suggesting that Israel has a right to “much of the Middle East,” invoking language often associated with biblical territorial claims.
In remarks reported by international media, Huckabee referenced historical and religious narratives tied to the region and said Israel would be “fine” if it were to “take it all,”.
The comments drew criticism from Palestinian officials and regional observers, who warned that such rhetoric risks inflaming tensions at a time of heightened instability. Under international law, the status of territories captured by Israel in 1967 — including the West Bank and East Jerusalem — remains disputed, with the United Nations and most of the international community considering settlements in occupied territory illegal, a position Israel contests.
Huckabee’s office has not issued further clarification. The remarks come amid ongoing conflict in Gaza and cross-border tensions with Lebanon, where territorial sovereignty remains a highly sensitive issue.
