Huckabee warns Israel over visa restrictions on evangelical groups

A diplomatic rift emerged this week as U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee issued a stern warning to Interior Minister Moshe Arbel over Israel’s treatment of evangelical Christian organizations seeking collective entry visas. In a letter described by N12 as one of the harshest ever sent by a U.S. ambassador to an Israeli official, Huckabee criticized what he called “bureaucratic harassment” and threatened reciprocal measures against Israeli citizens requesting U.S. visas if the situation persists.

“It would be unfortunate if we were forced to publicly disclose that Israel is engaging in harassment and displaying a negative stance toward these groups,” Huckabee wrote. “Should this continue, I will have no choice but to consider implementing reciprocal measures against Israeli citizens requesting U.S. visas.”

Huckabee’s letter comes amid reports that Israel’s Interior Ministry has been investigating evangelical organizations individually, requiring them to provide extensive details about their religious beliefs, activities, and property in Israel. Until these reviews are complete, visa approvals for religious representatives have been stalled.

“The U.S. and evangelical Christian organizations are Israel’s allies, yet we are being treated like adversaries,” Huckabee argued. “We will have no choice but to inform American Christians that their generous contributions are being met with hostility and advise them to reconsider their travel plans.”

The letter was sent not only to Arbel but also forwarded to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, President Isaac Herzog, Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, and Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana.

Interior Minister Arbel, in a direct reply, expressed surprise at Huckabee’s tone and approach. “I was taken aback by your message, and the course of action you took exceeds usual diplomatic norms,” Arbel wrote. He assured Huckabee that his office is addressing visa requests swiftly and has appointed a team, led by his chief of staff, to ensure the process remains efficient.

“To the best of my knowledge, each request I received has been dealt with promptly,” Arbel stated, noting that some of the cases mentioned in Huckabee’s letter were not previously brought to his attention. “Considering our direct communication, I was surprised that your claims were presented in this manner, especially your decision to send the letter to multiple senior officials without reaching out to me directly.”

The dispute comes just a day after Huckabee attended Prime Minister Netanyahu’s criminal trial, where he showed public support for the Israeli leader, even bringing a “Bibi” doll as a gesture of solidarity. Huckabee also compared Netanyahu’s legal challenges to those faced by former President Donald Trump, calling the trial a “witch-hunt” that undermines a leader’s ability to govern effectively.

While evangelical Christians remain among Israel’s strongest international supporters, this visa dispute highlights a rare point of friction. Huckabee’s warning underscores the influence of this community and the importance of resolving the matter before it strains relations further.

Israel, a nation that thrives on its global partnerships and its ability to welcome Christian pilgrims and supporters, is expected to review these policies in light of the ambassador’s remarks.

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