US Ambassador Huckabee deeply concerned about new Israel visa restrictions

US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee has expressed deep concerns over new visa restrictions affecting evangelical and Christian organizations that support tourism and pilgrimages in the occupied territories.

In a threatening letter to Israel’s Interior Minister Moshe Arbel on July 17, Huckabee expressed “profound disappointment” over the issue.

He said it would be “very unfortunate” that the US Embassy might publicly state that Israel is unwelcoming to Christian organizations and their representatives, accusing the regime of harassment and negative treatment.

He suggested that American Christians be cautioned about their donations being met with hostility and urged tourists to reconsider visiting the occupied territories.

Huckabee threatened reciprocal measures, stating that continued bureaucratic harassment could lead the US to impose similar visa restrictions on Israeli citizens.

The US envoy’s letter follows Israel’s alleged denial of collective entry visas to numerous Christian groups.

Huckabee said Israel’s policies toward these groups have tightened under President Donald Trump.

A copy of the letter was sent to Israel’s prime minister, president, foreign minister, and Knesset speaker.

In a meeting in May, the US ambassador and Israeli interior minister discussed the issue. But tensions persist.

Arbel expressed surprise at Huckabee’s approach, noting that the letter was sent to multiple officials without first contacting him directly.

He claimed that his office had addressed all visa requests brought to his attention promptly.

It is unusual that Huckabee, known for his staunch support of Israel, has issued such a critical letter, which highlights the severity of the dispute over visa policies for Christian organizations.

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