In an exclusive interview with Digital in Jerusalem this week, Mike Huckabee stated that the U.S. will not participate in a French and Saudi Arabian-backed conference in New York City next month that aims to promote Palestinian statehood.

Huckabee believes it’s “incredibly inappropriate” to push for this recognition amidst Israel’s ongoing war, especially given the increased Israeli opposition to the idea.

He suggested that if France is so committed to a Palestinian state, they should allocate a portion of the French Riviera for it, rather than pressuring a sovereign nation. He called France’s perceived right to do so “revolting.”

Huckabee hopes France will reconsider, but reiterated the U.S. would not be involved in what he called “such a ruse.”

Addressing recent reports of tension between the U.S. and Israel, Huckabee acknowledged past differences during the Trump administration between the U.S. and Netanyahu’s government. However, he doesn’t foresee a major breakdown in relations.

He stated that pro-Israel Americans shouldn’t worry about a rift between the two countries. While there may be disagreements on strategies in Gaza, hostage negotiations, or preventing a wider conflict with Iran, the fundamental relationship remains strong and essential.

Huckabee emphasized that the U.S.-Israel connection is not just a friendship or alliance but a “partnership,” characterized by intelligence sharing and military cooperation, making the two nations “inseparably” linked.

Regarding talks with Iran, Huckabee described the Islamic Republic as a major threat to global peace, posing a risk to Israel, Gulf nations, and the U.S. itself.

He referenced Iran’s historical rhetoric, where Israel is the “Little Satan” and the U.S. is the “Great Satan,” warning that Iran has been openly planning to attack the U.S. for decades and should be taken seriously.

Despite this, Huckabee hopes that ongoing nuclear negotiations will succeed and prevent military conflict.

He added that diplomacy is the first resort, but military action may be required if diplomacy fails.

He expressed skepticism about Iran changing its behavior after years of what he described as “weaponized” hatred but hopes they will disarm. However, he noted that the U.S. President has been clear that Iran will not be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons.

Turning to the war in Gaza, Huckabee stressed that the conflict could end immediately if Hamas releases the hostages and leaves Gaza permanently.

He stated this outcome could have been achieved on October 8, 2023, and condemned Hamas’ actions as “unthinkable, horrific, heinous, uncivilized, savage behavior.”

Huckabee reiterated President Trump’s stance that Hamas cannot continue to rule Gaza. “They can’t rule it, they can’t stay,” said Huckabee.

He said that Israel is willing to exile Hamas members, offering them a way out, but they cannot remain in power. He insisted on the return of all hostages, living or dead.

Huckabee hopes for a swift resolution.

Speaking on Thursday, Huckabee expressed his eagerness to remove a lapel pin he wears in support of the hostages, signifying their safe return.

He also expressed confidence in the potential expansion of the Abraham Accords, which normalized relations between Israel and several Arab states during Trump’s presidency.

While not naming specific countries, Huckabee said that many nations now see “having enmity with Israel is meaningless.” He acknowledged the delicate process involved for some countries, requiring public support, but sees “a great atmosphere and possibility” for significant additions to the Abraham Accords.

Tessa Hoyos contributed to this report.

“`