Huckabee marks historic first as US ambassador to West Bank

U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee made a historic first official visit by a sitting U.S. envoy to the ancient site of Shiloh in the West Bank, also referred to as Judea and Samaria, at the invitation of the Yesha Council. During his visit, Huckabee and his wife recited Hannah’s Prayer at the biblical Tabernacle site, praying for the release of hostages and the safety of Israeli soldiers. Huckabee emphasized his commitment to using the biblical terms 'Judea and Samaria' rather than 'West Bank,' arguing that to do otherwise would be a historical injustice and a denial of the Bible. He praised the sacrifices of local Jewish communities, calling their presence a 'miracle' explained only by faith, and declared support for their cause, stating that those who do not stand with them do not stand with God. The visit included meetings with regional leaders and highlighted the site's deep religious and historical significance for the Jewish people. Huckabee’s remarks and actions reinforced his longstanding pro-Israel stance and the Trump administration’s alignment with Israeli settlements in the region.