Arab nations condemn US envoy's remarks backing Israeli expansion
2026-02-22 - 06:52
A wave of condemnation has swept across the Arab world following controversial remarks by the United States ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, who openly supported Israeli control over vast swathes of the Middle East. In an interview with US journalist Tucker Carlson, Huckabee invoked biblical claims to argue for Israeli sovereignty from the Nile River to the Euphrates, stating, "It would be fine if they took it all." Regional Capitals Reject 'Absurd' Claims Jordan's Foreign Ministry was swift to respond, labeling the ambassador's statements as "absurd and provocative." Amman asserted that the rhetoric constitutes a violation of diplomatic norms, a breach of international law, and a direct infringement on the sovereignty of regional states. The ministry pointedly noted that the comments contradict the publicly stated position of the US administration, which has previously rejected the annexation of the occupied West Bank. Egypt's Foreign Ministry also voiced its surprise and condemnation, describing Huckabee's remarks as a "flagrant departure" from international law and the UN Charter. Cairo reiterated that Israel holds no sovereignty over occupied Palestinian or any other Arab territories and rejected any attempts to annex the West Bank or expand illegal settlements. Saudi Arabia's Foreign Ministry joined the chorus, condemning in the "strongest terms" what it called "reckless remarks" that set a dangerous precedent and dismiss the region's long-standing relations with Washington. Threat to International Peace The Saudi statement warned that such extremist commentary threatens international peace and security by antagonizing the region's nations and peoples. Riyadh called on the US State Department to clarify its position and reaffirmed its firm stance against any infringement on states' sovereignty and territorial integrity. The Kingdom stressed that a just peace can only be achieved through a two-state solution, with an independent Palestinian state on the 1967 borders. Widespread Rejection from Gulf and Beyond Kuwait, Iraq, and Oman also issued strong statements rejecting Huckabee's remarks. Kuwait's Foreign Ministry warned that legitimizing control over others' territory would inflame tensions and undermine stability. Baghdad described the comments as a serious overreach that contradicts the UN Charter, while Muscat condemned the "illegitimate acceptance" of imposing control over Arab lands. The unified Arab response underscores deep regional opposition to expansionist ideologies and reaffirms commitment to Palestinian rights and international resolutions.