Huckabee’s ‘take it all’ comment sparks Arab fury: Saudi-led bloc slams ‘dangerous’ expansionist rhetoric

Comments by Mike Huckabee, the US Ambassador to Israel, suggesting that Israel would be justified in claiming extensive territory across West Asia, have triggered sharp condemnation from Arab and Muslim nations. The backlash culminated in a joint diplomatic statement led by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.Huckabee’s remarks, reported by the AP, were made during an interview with conservative commentator Tucker Carlson on Friday. Discussing biblical interpretations of land promised to the descendants of Abraham, Huckabee was asked whether Israel had a right to territory spanning much of West Asia. He replied that it “would be fine if they took it all,” while adding that Israel is not currently seeking territorial expansion and is entitled to security within its legitimate borders.

The comments prompted an immediate backlash from several regional governments. In a joint statement, Arab and Islamic nations, alongside the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the League of Arab States, expressed “strong condemnation and deep concern,” labeling the remarks dangerous, inflammatory, and a violation of international law and the UN Charter.
The statement reaffirmed that Israel holds no sovereignty over occupied Palestinian or other Arab territories and rejected any attempt to legitimise control over such lands. It warned that expansionist rhetoric inflames regional tensions and undermines prospects for peace, while reiterating support for Palestinian self-determination and the establishment of an independent state based on the 1967 borders.Also read: US accepted Iran’s bid to maintain uranium enrichment, ISNA says

Regional ministries noted that the Ambassador’s comments appear to contradict the vision outlined by US President Donald Trump for ending the Gaza conflict and achieving a political settlement based on coexistence. They urged respect for international law, cautioning that such rhetoric risks fueling violence and insecurity across the region.