Bored of Peace? Mike Huckabee's 'fine if Israel takes Middle East' remark angers Trump's Arab allies
Times of India
by TOI WORLD DESKFebruary 24, 2026
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US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee sparked a diplomatic furor in the Middle East after suggesting it would be "fine" if Israel took territory stretching from the Nile to the Euphrates, referencing biblical claims. His remarks were widely condemned by Arab nations, with Saudi Arabia calling them "dangerous and inconsistent with international law," Jordan labeling them an assault on regional sovereignty, and Egypt warning they violated diplomatic norms. The UAE echoed concerns about the impact on fragile regional diplomacy, while a joint statement from multiple Arab states described Huckabee's comments as a flagrant violation of international principles and a threat to regional stability.
Huckabee made the remarks during an interview with Tucker Carlson, where he appeared to support Israel's biblical right to land spanning much of the Middle East. He later distanced himself, calling his initial comment "somewhat hyperbolic" and claiming parts were taken out of context. However, Arab nations responded swiftly and strongly, with Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Egypt, and others coordinating a unified rebuke. The statement reaffirmed support for a two-state solution and warned against maximalist language undermining peace prospects.
The backlash highlights growing tensions over Israel's territorial claims and the role of US diplomacy in the region. While Trump administration officials reassured partners that Huckabee's comments do not reflect official policy, Arab nations remain concerned about perceived US support for Israeli expansionism. The incident underscores the delicate balance Washington must maintain between addressing Israel's security needs and preserving relationships with key Arab allies.
This controversy matters because it exposes deep divisions over Israel's territorial ambitions and raises questions about the sustainability of peace efforts in the region. As Middle East tensions escalate, Huckabee's remarks have become a flashpoint for broader debates about US involvement and its impact on regional stability. The coordinated response from Arab nations signals their collective opposition to
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/24/2026