Huckabee’s remarks rebuffed

2026-02-23 - 21:43

THE remarks by US Ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, have sparked an uproar across the Middle East, particularly among several Islamic states. In an interview with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson, Huckabee expressed support for Israel’s territorial expansion, suggesting that he would not oppose Israel taking over large swathes of the Middle East. These comments are not only dangerous but also deeply divisive, further complicating the already volatile situation in the region. Pakistan, along with a coalition of 13 other nations condemned Huckabee’s rhetoric in the strongest terms. In a joint statement, they stressed that Huckabee’s words contravened international law and posed a direct threat to the security and stability of the Middle East. The diplomatic push to establish peace cannot and must not be sidelined by inflammatory rhetoric that promotes aggression and occupation. It is particularly alarming that Huckabee’s remarks come at a time when the international community, particularly President Donald Trump, has been engaged in efforts to bring a modicum of stability to the region. Supporting Israel’s territorial ambitions, particularly when it comes to further annexing Palestinian land, will not lead to peace or stability. Instead, it will likely fuel a new wave of resentment and violence that undermines the broader aspirations for peace in the Middle East. Instead of aligning with Israel’s aggressive posture, Western countries, including the United States, should place their full support behind a renewed and meaningful effort to resolve the Palestinian issue. This requires moving away from policies that validate Israeli expansionism and instead focusing on a two-state solution that guarantees the Palestinian people their own sovereign state. Central to this vision is the establishment of a Palestinian state with Al-Quds al-Sharif, as its capital. It is important to note that the establishment of a Palestinian state is not only a matter of moral justice but a necessary step for ensuring a stable and peaceful Middle East. The future of the region and, indeed the world, depends on a commitment to peace, respect for international law and the recognition of the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination.