A coalition of 14 Arab and Islamic nations, alongside the Gulf Cooperation Council, Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, and the Arab League, have jointly condemned remarks made by US Ambassador Mike Huckabee. The countries stated Huckabee's comments, suggesting Israel could control Arab territories, were reckless, inflamed regional tensions, and undermined peace efforts.
The joint statement, issued by foreign ministries from Qatar, Egypt, Jordan, the UAE, Indonesia, Pakistan, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain, Lebanon, Syria, and Palestine, expressed deep concern. They asserted that Huckabee's remarks threaten regional security and violate international law, emphasizing Israel's lack of sovereignty over occupied Palestinian territory and other Arab lands. The coalition called for an end to annexation plans and settlement expansion, reaffirming support for Palestinian self-determination and an independent state along 1967 borders.
Huckabee's comments, made during an interview, suggested it would be acceptable for Israel to take control of lands claimed by Arab states, including the West Bank. Nations warned these remarks could worsen tensions in an already volatile region and hinder efforts toward a two-state solution, urging the US to clarify its official position.
In separate diplomatic activity, Qatar's Prime Minister spoke with Iran's Foreign Minister regarding de-escalation and negotiations. This incident occurs amidst ongoing disputes over Israeli policies in the West Bank and Gaza, with regional leaders warning that remarks legitimizing control over Arab lands exacerbate violence and impede peace.