(NewsNation) — A major shakeup affecting how the United States conducts foreign policy is underway as President-elect Donald Trump unveils more cabinet picks and other administration posts.
Families of Israeli hostages are watching the incoming administration closely. Those families said Tuesday at the White House that they hope Trump prioritizes bringing their loved ones home.
Today, some — including former National Security Council Senior Director Michael Allen — told NewsNation that America’s foreign policy is about to look “very different,” especially in its dealings with Israel.
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Allen expects Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to have a longer leash and said Iran may soon worry about enforced sanctions.
Those sentiments are seemingly reflected in some of Trump’s latest foreign policy picks. who are ardently pro-Israel.
Who might influence foreign policy under Trump?
Sources told NewsNation that Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., will be named secretary of state, while former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee could be nominated for U.S. ambassador to Israel. Trump’s choice for secretary of defense is army veteran and current Fox News host Pete Hegseth.
Rubio has repeatedly called for a complete eradication of Hamas and blames the violence in the region squarely on the terror group.
Meanwhile, Huckabee has received enthusiastic applause from the Republican Jewish Coalition.
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What are their views on Israel?
Huckabee told NewsNation he opposes a two-state solution. He drew criticism during his 2008 presidential campaign when he said, “There is really no such thing as a Palestinian.”
The Trump transition team selected another pro-Israel potential cabinet member overnight.
Hegseth has expressed his support for a peace-through-strength solution to the Middle Eastern conflict.
Each of Trump’s picks still requires Senate confirmation.
On the campaign trail, Trump expressed his desire for a quick end to the war. He’s already spoken with Netanyahu, whose office said the two agreed to work together for Israel’s security.
