The appointment is made at a time when Israel is locked in a conflict with Hezbollah and Hamas.

Announcing the nomination, Trump said in a statement: "Mike has been a great public servant, Governor, and Leader in Faith for many years. He loves Israel, and the people of Israel, and likewise, the people of Israel love him. Mike will work tirelessly to bring about Peace in the Middle East!”

According to media reports,Mike Huckabee is a strong defender of Israel.

Israeli officials praise Trump's pick

Israel's new Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar said he is looking forward to work with the new UN envoy to his nation.

He wrote on X: "Congratulations @GovMikeHuckabee on the announcement of your nomination as US Ambassador to Israel. I look forward to working with you to strengthen the bond between our peoples. As a longstanding friend of Israel and our eternal capital Jerusalem - I hope you will feel very much at home."

Israel’s ambassador to the UN, Danny Danon, said: "Welcome to Israel my dear friend @GovMikeHuckabee!"