Any US military action against Iran would be closely coordinated with Jerusalem, US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee said in an interview with Channel 12 that aired Sunday.
Huckabee said the decision on a strike had not been made, adding that US President Donald Trump “hopes for the best outcome” and would pursue a deal if possible.
He emphasized that the United States would not accept a nuclear-armed Iran and that the pace of events would hinge on Tehran’s actions. According to the envoy, if Iran escalates, “all bets are off,” but for now, Israelis should remain alert and continue daily life.
The ambassador said he could not imagine either the US or Israel acting without full coordination with one another. He noted the long-standing security partnership and said any hypothetical operation would reflect that reality.
Israeli and American officials have recently discussed the missile threat and broader deterrence dynamics, underscoring the need for tight policy alignment.
Huckabee: Trump will defend Iranian people and stop regime from getting nuclear weapon
“[Trump] will do two things,” Huckabee said. “First, protect the Iranian people who are being brutalized by a runaway government that for 47 years has threatened Israel and the United States. Second, he will be adamant that Iran does not get a nuclear weapon and does not enrich uranium."
Asked about competing regional friendships, Huckabee said Israel is Washington’s central ally. He pointed to the US decision to prioritize Israel’s qualitative military edge, contrasting it with limits on Ankara’s access to the F-35 program, a process that has faced political and legal headwinds for years.
He added that any Turkish shift would require significant changes to defense posture.
Looking ahead to Gaza’s next stage, Huckabee said the goal remains a Gaza where Hamas is disarmed and plays no role in governance.
“The president said Hamas will disarm and have no role in Gaza. How, when, and who does it still have question marks, but I believe it will happen,” he said.
He referenced the involvement of regional actors and reforms in civilian life, saying any arrangement must ensure security and stability for residents. He added that trust in Hamas is unwarranted and that international pressure would be key to enforcing any commitments.
Responding to criticism about alleged interference in the trial of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Huckabee said the United States respected Israel’s sovereignty and judiciary.
He framed Trump’s call to pardon Netanyahu as the US position, not an attempt to undermine the courts.
“Americans are blunt, like Israelis. We took a position, but not to challenge the Supreme Court’s integrity. It resembled what we saw in the US against President Trump,” Huckabee said.