Category: Israel

The Woke Right: A New Threat to Conservatism and Israel

In this presentation, Pastor Brandon exposes the growing influence of the “Woke Right”—a movement that mimics the tactics of the progressive left while claiming to defend conservative values. But beneath the surface, it brings division, distortion, and deception into the heart of the conservative movement. You’ll discover how this ideology: Hijacks conservative language while rejecting biblical truth Divides true conservatism through revenge, tribalism, and victimhood Elevates identity politics and antisemitic conspiracy under the guise of nationalism Demonizes Israel and undermines its biblical role in God’s redemptive plan Aligns with global antisemitic trends—even within the Church From America to Europe and beyond, the Woke Right is eroding moral clarity and replacing principled leadership with cultural revenge. This message calls for discernment, theological backbone, and unwavering support for truth and for Israel in the face of spiritual and political drift. 📖 “Have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them.” (Ephesians 5:11)

Iran ‘asked for Israel to come back’ with new strikes despite ceasefire deal

ISRAEL-IRAN: War back ON as Israeli BOMBERS race to Tehran after regime 'fired BALLISTIC missile'

'THIS REGIME IS NOT GOING TO CHANGE': Keane issues warning about Iran despite ceasefire

Details EMERGE of U.S. Strike On Iran; IDF ASSASSINATES Top Iran Generals | TBN Israel

TBN Israel's Yair Pinto reports on the Israel-Iran War. As missile alerts wake Israelis yet again, a real battle unfolds deep inside Iran. In a bold and expansive operation, Israeli airstrikes hit ballistic missile sites, weapons depots, and key military airfields crippling the IRGC’s offensive capabilities. With Iran’s elite launch sites still posing a threat from the east, and American officials confirming massive underground damage to Iran’s nuclear program, the stakes are rising fast. The regime in Tehran faces a fateful choice: continue a war it’s losing or accept the path to surrender. Stay up-to-date with the latest developments here on TBN Israel.

Netanyahu: Israel is capable of striking Iran’s Fordow nuclear site without U.S. support

(L) Iranian kids perform on stage in front of a “Death to America” banner in Tehran, Iran, on November 3, 2024. (Photo by Hossein Beris / Middle East Images / Middle East Images via AFP) / (Background) Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu gives a statement. (Photo by JACK GUEZ/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

OAN Staff Brooke Mallory
12:09 PM – Friday, June 20, 2025

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu firmly suggested that the Jewish State possesses the capability to strike all of Iran’s nuclear installations — including the highly fortified Fordow Fuel Enrichment Plant, located “half a mile beneath a mountain” — without offensive U.S. intervention.

Despite some skepticism among military analysts regarding Israel’s ability to neutralize such deeply buried sites, Netanyahu still asserted that Israel “will achieve all our objectives,” reaffirming his government’s determination.

“We [Israel] will achieve all our objectives and hit all of their nuclear facilities. We have the capability to do that,” Netanyahu said when asked by a reporter about Fordow in relation to the U.S. joining offensively.

Since initiating its “Operation Rising Lion” campaign against the Islamic nation, Israel has conducted strikes on multiple Iranian nuclear sites, including a major facility in Natanz and others in the vicinity of Tehran and Isfahan.

In addition to targeting infrastructure, Israeli operations have reportedly eliminated more than a dozen high-ranking Iranian scientists and senior military officials. Iranian scientists work across a wide range of fields, often with a strong emphasis on self-sufficiency due to international sanctions and geopolitical pressures.

Meanwhile, the heavily fortified Fordow facility has emerged as a critical factor influencing President Donald Trump’s deliberations on whether the United States should intervene in the escalating Israel-Iran conflict.

While Netanyahu maintains that U.S. involvement is likely unnecessary for an offensive strike, numerous military analysts have argued that the U.S. remains Israel’s sole ally equipped with long-range strategic bombers capable of delivering the heavy bunker-buster munitions necessary to target deeply buried sites such as the Fordow facility.

However, there is ongoing debate within defense circles over whether even these advanced munitions would be sufficient to fully neutralize Fordow, given its depth and fortification.

President Trump stated on Thursday that he will make a final determination on a potential strike against Iran within the “next two weeks,” noting that he still remains hopeful for a diplomatic resolution.

“Based on the fact that there’s a substantial chance of negotiations that may or may not take place with Iran in the near future, I will make my decision on whether or not to recertify within the next two weeks,” Trump said in a statement that was read aloud yesterday by White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt.

The GOP commander-in-chief has encountered resistance from within his MAGA base over the unfolding Middle Eastern conflict, with notable Republican voices such as Steve Bannon and Tucker Carlson vocally urging the United States to avoid entanglement in the rapidly escalating situation.

On the other hand, politicians like Senator Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) and Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas) argue that the only way to stop Iran from developing nuclear weapons is to exemplify the United States’ military strength in an offensive capacity.

Cruz endorsed the possibility of a targeted air strike, using a 30,000-lb. Massive Ordnance Penetrator (“bunker buster”) on Iran’s fortified Fordow nuclear complex. He also emphasized that this tactic could be deployed without sending U.S. troops into Iran.

Furthermore, Netanyahu, for his part, expressed that the decision regarding U.S. involvement rests “entirely” with President Trump and what he feels is best for the United States.

“He’ll do what’s good for the United States, and I’ll do what’s good for the State of Israel,” the Israeli prime minister said, noting, “as the saying goes — every contribution is welcome.”

Over the weekend, Netanyahu continued to defend Israel’s decision to launch strikes against Iran, dismissing concerns raised over earlier testimony by Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, who stated in March that the U.S. intelligence community had assessed that Iran was not actively pursuing the development of a nuclear weapon.

“The intel we got and we shared with the United States was absolutely clear — was absolutely clear — that they were working on a secret plan to weaponize the uranium,” Netanyahu stated on Fox News’ “Special Report with Bret Baier” on Sunday.

“They were marching very quickly. They could achieve a test device and possibly an initial device within months and certainly less than a year,” he added. “I think we have excellent intel on Iran.”

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Israel STRIKES Iran Nuclear Reactor; U.S. Mobilizes For Possible Iran Attack | TBN Israel

Join Yair Pinto and Mati Shoshani for the latest updates on the Israel-Iran War. Israel now holds air superiority over Iran. In this explosive war update, Yair Pinto and Mati Shoshani break down the full scope of Operation Rising Lion; from Mossad’s covert drone hangars in Tehran to multi-day airstrikes eliminating Iran’s top commanders and nuclear scientists. Hear how Israeli intelligence, years in the making, led to a perfectly orchestrated assault against the IRGC and strategic facilities deep inside Iran. With B-52 bombers waiting on U.S. carriers and the Ayatollah's regime unraveling, the big question is: will America join the fight? A defining moment in Middle East history, global security, and the future of Western values. Stay up-to-date with the latest developments here on CBN Israel. Israel is currently facing intense challenges—ongoing conflict, security threats, and uncertain futures. This is more difficult than ever, and the burden on the Israeli people is heavy. Now more than ever, your support is urgently needed. Together, we can bring light and encouragement in these challenging days. Donate now at: https://www.tbn.org/standwithisrael Please join us in praying for the peace of Israel and Jerusalem. TBN Israel creates cutting-edge content that tells the continuing, multi-faceted narrative of Israel. And it all happens through partners like you. Your financial support enables TBN Israel to produce engaging, one-of-a-kind programming that educates viewers around the world about this land and people so loved by God. Donate today: https://www.tbn.org/israel

Israel DESTROYS Iranian Nuclear Reactor; Russia Declares China ENEMY

Israel has hit and destroyed the IR-40 Heavy Water Reactor near Khondab Iran only hours ago, with footage and satellite data showing the initial impact and destruction of the dome of the reactor vessel, which was used to create weapons grade plutonium for the Iranian regime. Israel has been hit by more Iranian ballistic missiles over the course of the last few hours, and has vowed to take out Khomeini and has high confidence that even without US support Iran can only survive a few weeks longer before the government inevitably collapses or is wiped out. US war preparations are still ongoing, with the US shipping fresh blood transfusions into the region, along with the shifting of assets and personnel out of harm's way. Russia has also declared China an enemy state in a classified security service paper that was leaked to the press, stating that China is an "enemy hunting for new technology and innovations." Ukrainian forces have also hit the city of Orenburg, some 1000 Km (750 miles) inside the Russian Federation this morning.

Israel condemns Iran for ‘war crimes’ after missile strike on hospital injures over 70

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stands amid debris outside the Soroka Hospital in the southern city of Beersheba, after it was hit by a missile fired from Iran on June 19, 2025. Israel's defence minister warned that Iran's supreme leader "can no longer be allowed to exist" after a hospital was hit in an Iranian missile strike on June 19, spiking tensions in the week-old war. (Photo by Marc Israel SELLEM / POOL / AFP) (Photo by MARC ISRAEL SELLEM/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stands amid debris outside the Soroka Hospital in the southern city of Beersheba, after it was hit by a missile fired from Iran on June 19, 2025. (Photo by MARC ISRAEL SELLEM/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

OAN Staff Blake Wolf
10:55 AM – Thursday, June 19, 2025

The Israeli Minister of Defense Israel Katz accused the Iranian regime of “war crimes of the most serious kind” after an Israeli hospital was decimated by an Iranian missile.

The Iranian missiles slammed into Soroka Medical Center in southern Israel on Thursday, causing significant damage while leaving 71 individuals with “minor injuries,” according to Israel’s Ministry of Health. Soroka is the largest hospital in the Negev, a large desert region in Southern Israel.

Additional Iranian missiles slammed into a high-rise building, along with several other residential buildings, injuring a total of 271 people on Thursday.

“This morning, Iran’s terrorist tyrants launched missiles at Soroka Hospital in Beersheba and at a civilian population in the center of the country,” stated Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. “We will exact the full price from the tyrants in Tehran.”

“We accurately hit nuclear targets and missile targets, and they hit a hospital, where people can’t even get up and run away,” he continued. “That’s the whole difference between a democracy that acts according to the law to save itself from the murderers and against these murderers who want to destroy each and every one of us. Every single one of us. Down to the last one of us. I think that says it all.”

Katz explained that Israel will retaliate to the attacks by instructing the Israeli Defense Force (IDF) to “increase the intensity of attacks against strategic targets in Iran and against government targets in Tehran in order to remove threats to the State of Israel and undermine the ayatollahs’ regime.”

“These are war crimes of the most serious kind — and [Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali] Khamenei will be held accountable for his crimes,” he added.

Meanwhile, Professor Asher Bashiri, the director of the maternity ward at the hospital, recounted the aftermath of the attack.

“It looks unbelievable,” he stated. “The upper part of the building is cracked, and fire was coming from it in the first hours. Everything looks broken.”

“We were very, very lucky,” Bashiri continued. “It could have been so much worse. But we are still living in an unbelievable situation. It’s not finished – I don’t know what will happen tomorrow, or the next day. We’re just happy that we’re alive.”

Additionally, Iranian state media responded to the attack, arguing that it was targeting a “large command and intelligence headquarters of the Israeli army and the military intelligence camp located in the Gav-Yam technology park, adjacent to Soroka Hospital.”

“These centers host thousands of military personnel, digital command systems, cyber operations, and the Zionist army’s C4ISR systems,” Iran’s state media continued in a Telegram post. “The hospital was only exposed to the blast wave and sustained no significant damage; however, the military infrastructure was precisely and directly targeted.”

The news of the hospital attack comes as Israel and Iran continue to trade airstrikes following Israel’s “preemptive” strike against Iran last Thursday in an attempt to destroy Iran’s ability to create a nuclear weapon, and potentially topple the Iranian regime.

In a recent interview on Fox News, Netanyahu stated that regime change “could certainly be the result” of Israel’s military offensive, while also seemingly calling on the Iranian people to rise up and topple the regime, adding: “A light has been lit — carry it to freedom.”

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Victor Davis Hanson: Israel-Iran War Will ‘Be For Naught’ if the Regime, Nuclear Program Survive

Regardless of whether Israel has the capability to decimate Iran’s entire nuclear program, or whether the United States needs to become further involved in the war and provide Israel with “bunker-buster” bombs, one thing is clear: “If this war should end with the Iranian regime intact and the elements of its nuclear program recoverable, then in some ways it will have been all for naught,” argues Victor Davis Hanson in today’s edition of “Victor Davis Hanson: In His Own Words.”  “It is surreal. If we had this conversation five years ago and I said to you, ‘The Iranian nation—that is huge compared to Israel, 10 times the population—the Iranian nation has lost all control of the Houthi terrorists and they are themselves neutered. Their surrogates in the West Bank and Gaza are neutered. They're gone, Hamas as a fighting force. The formidable, terrifying Hezbollah cadres, they're inert. ‘“‘There is no Russian presence. I'm not a patron. It is not a protector. It's not a power in the Middle East. It's tied down in Ukraine. And Iran itself, the formidable powerhouse of the Middle East that evoked terror all over, has no defenses....' “And we're down to a single critical issue… if this war should end with the Iranian regime intact and the elements of its nuclear program recoverable, then, in some ways, it will have been all for naught.” 

Major TENSION Inside Trump’s Iran-Israel War Room?

Israel expert Michael Doran discusses the growing threat of Iran developing a nuclear weapon and the U.S. and Israel’s potential responses, including targeting key facilities like Fordow. He highlights internal tensions within the Trump administration between restrainers advocating distance from Israel and traditional foreign policy advocates supporting Trump’s firm stance against Iran. Doran argues this aligns with American public sentiment and doubts the readiness of Iranian opposition to overthrow the regime.

MTG criticizes ‘fake’ MAGA Republicans ‘slobbering’ over U.S. joining Israel-Iran War: ‘We’re sick and tired of foreign wars’

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - OCTOBER 15: U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) speaks before Republican presidential nominee, former U.S. President Donald Trump during a campaign rally at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre on October 15, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia. With early voting starting today in Georgia both Trump and Democratic presidential nominee, Vice President Kamala Harris are campaigning in the Atlanta region this week as polls show a tight race. (Photo by Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)
U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) speaks before Republican presidential nominee, former U.S. President Donald Trump during a campaign rally (Photo by Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)

OAN Staff Blake Wolf
10:40 AM – Monday, June 16, 2025

Georgia GOP Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene recently slammed “fake” supporters of the “America First” movement, whom she says have been “slobbering” over the United States engaging in another regime change war in the Middle East.

Greene’s (R-Ga.) social media post highlights a current split in the “Make America Great Again” (MAGA) movement, as the very essence of the political movement is said to be the rejection of foreign interventionism previously adopted by the neo-conservative perspective, which analysts say heavily influenced former President George W. Bush’s foreign policy.

“Everyone is finding out who the real America First/MAGA and who were fake and just said it [because] it was popular. Unfortunately, the list of fakes is quickly becoming quite long and quickly exposed,” she began.

“Anyone slobbering for the U.S. to become fully involved in the Israel/Iran war is not America First/MAGA. Wishing for the murder of innocent people is disgusting. We are sick and tired of foreign wars. All of them,” Greene continued. “And this one will quickly engulf the Middle East, BRICS, and NATO as countries are required to take a side.”

“Real America First/MAGA wants world peace for all people and doesn’t want our military killed or forever injured physically and mentally. We love our U.S. military and love them helping to secure our borders and our cities for the defense of OUR PEOPLE AND OUR COUNTRY.”

Greene went on to point out the disastrous reverberations the previous wars in the Middle East had on American soldiers returning to the United States, while also pointing out the massive debt crisis currently crippling the nation.

“We have spent TRILLIONS in the Middle East and we are dealing with the aftermath of death, blown apart bodies, never ending suicides, and disabling PTSD. All because they told us propaganda as to why we must sacrifice our own to defend some other country’s borders.”

According to a 2021 study by Brown University’s Cost of War Project, 30,177 active-duty U.S. service members and veterans of the post-9/11 wars have committed suicide as of June 2021, which is significantly more than the 7,057 service members who died in the post-9/11 wars.

“I don’t want to see Israel bombed or Iran bombed or Gaza bombed. I don’t want to see Ukraine bombed or Russia bombed. We do NOT want to be involved or required to pay for ANY OF IT!!! We are $36+ TRILLION in debt and have mountains of our own problems. We have giant planks sticking out of our own eyes while we complain about splinters in other’s eyes.”

“Taking this position is NOT antisemitic. They’re rational, sane, and loving toward all people. Taking this position of peace and prosperity for all is not isolationism, it leads to GREAT trade deals and GREAT economies that help ALL PEOPLE,” Greene added.

Greene’s post follows after Israel issued “preemptive” strikes on Thursday, targeting Iranian military leaders and their nuclear facilities. They justified the attack by arguing that the regime was too dangerously close to developing a nuclear weapon, representing an existential threat to Israel.

“Netanyahu [utilized his] statement overnight, invoking the darkest chapter in Jewish history, to insist that Israel would never allow itself to be vulnerable to a 'nuclear holocaust,'” The Guardian reported.

Iran has also been accused of attempting to assassinate President Donald Trump. The Justice Department announced in November 2024 that it had filed charges related to an Iranian plot to kill Trump before the presidential election that year, according to NPR.

Nonetheless, Iran has since responded in retaliation, launching a barrage of ballistic missiles, ultimately overwhelming Israel’s missile defense systems and pounding into multiple areas across Israel. The two nations continue to lob airstrikes at one another, while Israeli leaders have reportedly urged the United States to join the fight against Iran.

Meanwhile, President Donald Trump has repeatedly called on the two sides to “make a deal.”

“We will have PEACE soon between Israel and Iran! Many calls and meetings now taking place,” Trump wrote in a Sunday Truth Social post. “MAKE THE MIDDLE EAST GREAT AGAIN!”

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SPECIAL REPORT: Israel’s Strike on Iran Changes the Middle East Forever

Israel and Iran are at war—and the outcome will change the Middle East forever. Host Erick Stakelbeck is joined by an all-star lineup of guests from Washington, D.C. and Jerusalem to break down what’s happening, what comes next, why it matters to you, and how we can pray. Featuring Israel’s Ambassador to the United States, Yechiel Leiter, Rev. Franklin Graham, Joel Rosenberg, Yair Pinto, Dr. Walid Phares and more.

Israel strikes Iran, targeting nuclear sites

TOPSHOT - Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivers a speech during his visit to an Israeli unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) centre, at the Palmachim Airbase near the city of Rishon LeZion on July 5, 2023. (Photo by JACK GUEZ / AFP) (Photo by JACK GUEZ/AFP via Getty Images)
Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivers a speech during his visit to an Israeli unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) centre, at the Palmachim Airbase near the city of Rishon LeZion on July 5, 2023. (Photo by JACK GUEZ / AFP) (Photo by JACK GUEZ/AFP via Getty Images)

OAN Staff Sophia Flores
7:03 PM – Thursday, June 12, 2025

After launching what Israel is labeling “preemptive strikes” on Iran, the Jewish State has gone into a state of emergency, bracing for retaliation.

Following strikes in Tehran, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a statement in a televised address.

“Moments ago, Israel launched Operation Rising Lion, a targeted military operation to roll back the Iranian threat to Israel’s very survival,” Netanyahu announced.

“This operation will continue for as many days as it takes to remove this threat. For decades the tyrants of Tehran have brazenly, openly, called for Israel’s destruction.”

“This is a clear and present danger to Israel’s very survival,” Netanyahu added.

“We struck at the head of Iran’s nuclear weaponization program,” he added. “We targeted Iran’s main enrichment facility in Natanz. We targeted Iran’s nuclear scientists working on the Iranian bomb. We also struck at the heart of Iran’s ballistic missile program.”

In the strikes, Israel targeted Iranian nuclear facilities, military assets and key figures in the Iranian military. Israeli military officials say Iran is advancing a secret program to build nuclear weapons.

Israel is now expecting a significant retaliatory response from Iran. They are bracing for it to be larger in scale than previous Iranian attacks. In order to prepare, Israel has banned school sessions, social gatherings, and “non-essential work” as it braces for retaliation.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in a statement that the United States was not involved and did not assist in the strikes that occurred on Thursday evening — Pacific Time (PT).

“Tonight, Israel took unilateral action against Iran. We are not involved in strikes against Iran and our top priority is protecting American forces in the region,” he said in a statement.

“Israel advised us that they believe this action was necessary for its self-defense. President Trump and the Administration have taken all necessary steps to protect our forces and remain in close contact with our regional partners. Let me be clear: Iran should not target U.S. interests or personnel,” Rubio stated.

Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas) quickly defended Israel’s strikes against Iran.

“Israel is acting to defend themselves and tonight we should stand unequivocally with the state of Israel,” he told Fox New’s Sean Hannity.

“Israel has an incredible military. They are surrounded by nations that would drive them into the sea and exterminate them,” the Texas lawmaker continued “We don’t know how this is going to end up but a nuclear Iran would be a profound threat to Israel and a profound threat to America.”

This is a breaking story. Check back for updates.

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Trump Calls On Syrian President To Join ‘Abraham Accords’ And Recognize Israel, Following Message To Saudis

RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA - MAY 14: U.S. President Donald Trump speaks during the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Leaders’ Summit at The Ritz-Carlton on May 14, 2025 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles appear on the left. The council addresses regional stability, defense cooperation, and energy policy among Gulf nations. Trump is on a multi-nation tour of the Gulf region focused on expanding economic ties and reinforcing security cooperation with key U.S. allies. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images)
U.S. President Donald Trump speaks during the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Leaders’ Summit at The Ritz-Carlton on May 14, 2025 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles appear on the left. The council addresses regional stability, defense cooperation, and energy policy among Gulf nations. Trump is on a multi-nation tour of the Gulf region focused on expanding economic ties and reinforcing security cooperation with key U.S. allies. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images)

OAN Staff James Meyers
3:25 PM – Wednesday, May 14, 2025

President Donald Trump called on Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa to join the Abraham Accords during a brief meeting in Saudi Arabia early on Wednesday. The request comes after Trump lifted all sanctions on Syria.

The announcement, made during Trump’s Middle East tour, marked a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy and was met with ongoing celebration in Damascus — where citizens viewed it as a pivotal step toward economic recovery. The sanctions have been in place for over a decade, severely impacting Syria’s economy.

This also follows after Trump addressed a speech to Saudi Arabia’s leaders on Tuesday. The 47th president similarly urged the oil-rich kingdom to formally recognize Israel and join the Abraham Accords, expressing that such a gesture would be a significant personal honor.

Abraham Accords – Signatory Countries: Israel, United Arab Emirates (UAE) – signed on September 15, 2020, Bahrain – signed on September 15, 2020, Sudan – announced normalization on October 23, 2020, and signed on January 6, 2021, and Morocco – announced normalization on December 10, 2020, and signed on December 22, 2020.

Meanwhile, the two leaders, al-Sharaa and Trump, met during the Gulf Cooperation Council gathering in Riyadh, with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan phoning in to hear the discussions.

Currently, Syria doesn’t recognize Israel’s statehood, with the Abraham Accords being one of Trump’s requests to Syria — in a move to help relations between the two neighboring nations.

According to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, Trump told al-Sharaa to “tell all foreign terrorists to leave Syria, deport Palestinian terrorists, help the United States prevent the resurgence of ISIS,” and “assume responsibility for ISIS detention centers in Northeast Syria.”

This was the first meeting between leaders of the U.S. and Syria in 25 years.

“I feel very strongly that this would give them a chance,” Trump said at the GCC meeting on Wednesday. “Gives them a good, strong chance … It was my honor to do so.

“We are currently exploring normalizing relations with Syria’s new government,” he added.

However, multiple reports have stated that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu previously asked Trump not to lift the sanctions against Syria. The appeal was made during Netanyahu’s visit to Washington, D.C., driven by concerns that lifting the sanctions could embolden hostile actors in Syria and potentially lead to cross-border attacks akin to Hamas’s assault, according to The Times of Israel outlet.

Nonetheless, Syria’s foreign ministry called the meeting with Trump “historic,” but mentioned nothing about the Abraham Accords. Despite that, Trump told the media that Syria’s president supports such a move.

“I told [Sharif], I hope you’re going to join [the Abraham Accords] once you’re straightened out and he said yes,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One. “But they have a lot of work to do.”

“Tough guy. Strong past. Very strong past. Fighter,” he continued. “He’s got a real shot at holding it together. I spoke with President Erdogan, who he's very friendly with him,” Trump continued. “He feels he’s got a shot at doing a good job. It’s a torn-up country.”

Trump further reiterated that he believes the new Syrian government will eventually agree to sign the Abraham Accords.

“I think they have to get themselves straightened up. I said to him, ‘I hope you’re going to join when it’s straightened out.’ He said, ‘Yes’…”

Al-Sharaa considers himself a former “militant,” and admits that he fought U.S. troops as a member of Al Qaeda in Iraq. He then founded the terrorist group’s Nusra Front affiliate in Syria in 2012. In 2016, al-Sharaa left al Qaeda’s leadership and has looked to “change his ways” ever since — as a defender of Syria’s religious expansion, which includes Christians and Alawites.

However, many Trump critics assert that he is merely disguising his true nature, emphasizing that engaging in negotiations with former terrorists is fundamentally misguided.

If Syria does end up recognizing Israel, it would be a stunning move by a Western leader.

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Former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee Appointed As U.S. Ambassador To Israel

WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 25: Former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee, U.S. President Donald Trump's nominee to be ambassador to Israel, testifies during his Senate Foreign Relations Committee confirmation hearing at the Dirksen Senate Office Building on March 25, 2025 in Washington, DC. Huckabee, the former governor and presidential candidate, answered questions on Israel and its campaign against Hamas. (Photo by Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)
Former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee, U.S. President Donald Trump’s nominee to be ambassador to Israel, testifies during his Senate Foreign Relations Committee confirmation hearing at the Dirksen Senate Office Building on March 25, 2025 in Washington, DC. Huckabee, a former governor and presidential candidate, answered questions on Israel and its campaign against Hamas. (Photo by Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)

OAN Staff James Meyers
2:48 PM – Wednesday, April 9, 2025

The Senate on Wednesday announced that former Arkansas GOP Governor Mike Huckabee, an ordained Southern Baptist pastor, will be President Donald Trump’s U.S. ambassador to Israel.

In a 53-46 vote, the Senate confirmed Huckabee, with Senator John Fetterman (D-Pa.) being the only Democrat to vote in favor of the nomination. No Republicans opposed Huckabee’s nomination.

Huckabee has been a known vocal supporter of Israel throughout his time in politics, as well as a defender of Jewish settlements in the West Bank.

Meanwhile, left-wing critics of Huckabee claim that he is “too strong” of a supporter of Israel to represent the United States. Additionally, Senate Democrats are reportedly alarmed by Huckabee’s nomination due to his vocal defense of his view that Israel has the right to annex the West Bank and Gaza Strip — which they fear “could jeopardize the possibility of a two-state solution” to the Israel-Palestine conflict.

On the other hand, supporters of the former governor argue that Huckabee is a great choice for Israel’s U.S. ambassador since he is extremely familiar with Israel and well-versed in the nation’s culture — as he has visited the Jewish State over 100 times.

Trump has not explicitly stated whether or not he supports Israeli annexation, saying earlier this year that he would make a decision within a few weeks. Trump has repeatedly suggested that the U.S. should take over and even “own” the Gaza Strip — while rebuilding the war-torn area.

With the recent confirmation, Huckabee’s upcoming arrival in Israel coincides with one of the most turbulent periods, as both sides have reached an impasse in efforts to reinstate a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. This visit also comes at a critical moment — as Israel seeks to negotiate the release of hostages taken during Hamas’ October 7th terrorist attack.

Last month, the Jewish State restarted military operations against the Islamist terrorist group, with both sides accusing the other of violating the ceasefire agreements.

Nonetheless, the presence of a U.S. ambassador in Israel will be regarded as a pivotal step, especially as Trump prepares to take on high-stakes negotiations with Iran on Saturday regarding its nuclear program.

Senator James E. Risch (R-Idaho), chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, spoke in favor of Huckabee’s confirmation on Friday.

“I have no doubt Gov. Huckabee is that person, and he will work alongside President Trump, Secretary of [State Marco] Rubio, and our friends in Israel to bring peace to a turbulent region and ensure both American and Israeli hostages are brought home from the clutches of Hamas,” he said.

Israel is considered the United States’ closest ally and largest single trading partner. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has visited Trump at the White House twice since he took back the presidency.

Israel Removes All Remaining Tariffs On United States Imports

U.S. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA) (R) and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu shake hands before delivering remarks following a meeting at the U.S. Capitol on February 07, 2025 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Kayla Bartkowski/Getty Images)

OAN Staff Brooke Mallory
1:14 PM – Tuesday, April 1, 2025

According to a joint statement released on Tuesday by the Finance Ministry, the Economy and Industry Ministry, and the Prime Minister’s Office — Israel has lifted all of its previous tariffs on United States goods.

The order to change the Trade Tariff and Protective Measures Order was approved by the Finance Committee and signed by Nir Barkat, Minister of Economy and Industry.

In 1985, the United States and Israel struck a free trade agreement that resulted in the complete exemption of almost all U.S. imports from tariffs.

“The joint statement clarified that, due to this, the tariff reduction will apply to a very limited number of products, primarily in the food and agricultural categories,” according to The Jerusalem Post, the oldest and largest English-language daily newspaper in Israel.

According to the statement, the strategic partnership between the two nations would grow if the remaining tariffs were lifted.

Israeli consumers would also profit from a possible drop in living expenses brought on by cheaper U.S. food and agricultural goods, the Israeli outlet continued.

“Canceling the tariffs on American goods is another step in the policy led by my government for over a decade to open the market to competition, introduce diversity into the economy, and reduce the cost of living,” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated.

“In addition to the economic benefits for the economy and Israeli citizens, this move will further strengthen the alliance and ties between Israel and the United States. We will continue to work on reducing barriers and tariffs and reinforcing our special relationship with the United States,” he added.

Israeli Chairman of the Religious Zionist Party Bezalel Smotrich posted on X on Tuesday, praising the news.

Hebrew to English translation: “0% tariffs on imports from the U.S.! The current administration is a real opportunity to shape a new strategic economic future for countries, while strengthening the U.S.’s global leadership and Israel’s central role as an economic partner. I see great importance in deepening economic cooperation, promoting innovation, and strengthening financial and commercial ties between the countries, as recently stated by the U.S. and Israeli Treasury Departments. Lowering taxes will benefit the State of Israel and is in line with the government’s policy in the fight against the cost of living, and will even increase competition in the food sector.”

Economy and Industry Minister Nir Barkat, who previously served as mayor of Jerusalem between the years 2008–2018, chimed in with his own comments on the agreement as well.

“We will continue to strengthen the Israeli economy and the strategic ties between our countries. The cancellation of tariffs on imports from the United States is a complementary step to the longstanding trade relations between the two countries, which will promote additional economic cooperation in the future and lead to a reduction in imported product costs,” Barkat stated.

“We will continue working together to open new markets and create economic opportunities that will strengthen the Israeli economy and our solid partnership with the United States, while maintaining local production,” he continued.

However, the decision was met with opposition from others as well, notably from the Israel Farmers’ Federation — which argued that “this is a step that will bring disaster to local agriculture.”

Amit Yifrach, who chairs the federation and serves as Secretary General of the Moshav Movement, and Uri Dorman, the federation’s Secretary General, said in a joint statement that: “Particularly today, after October 7 [2023]… we must internalize the importance of agriculture to the last furrow and strengthen the farmers who live near the [Gaza] border.”

“There is no doubt that trade relations with the U.S. are important and appropriate, but we must ensure that we do not throw the baby out with the bathwater, harming food security and national security,” the joint statement continued.

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