Mike Huckabee Nominated as U.S. Ambassador to Israel

President-elect Donald Trump has nominated former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee to serve as U.S. Ambassador to Israel, highlighting Huckabee's strong support for the country and his evangelical Christian beliefs. Trump praised Huckabee as a dedicated public servant who will work tirelessly for peace in the Middle East. Huckabee, who has been a long-time ally of Trump, previously expressed that the ambassadorship was not the right fit during Trump's first term. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has appointed Yechiel Leiter, a vocal advocate for Israeli settlements, as the new ambassador to the U.S., reflecting expectations of a more permissive U.S. stance under a second Trump administration. Leiter, who has a personal connection to the conflict, has publicly challenged President Biden's policies regarding Israel. The rapid nominations by Trump signify a focused approach to shaping foreign policy ahead of his administration.