U.S. Ambassador Huckabee Surprises Heritage Minister Eliyahu on Stage

U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee made a personal gesture toward Heritage Minister Amichai Eliyahu on Tuesday night during the opening of the International Conference on Israeli Heritage in Judea and Samaria, held at Herodium. After speaking about the historical importance of the Land of Israel and the bond between the Jewish people and their land, Huckabee paused his remarks to address the host directly.

Smiling, he told the audience, "The minister probably did not tell you this, but the man who does tremendous work for the people of Israel in preserving heritage sites is also preserving something of his own today. Today marks 24 years of marriage." He then asked attendees to congratulate Eliyahu and added, "I think we should give him a little appreciation for 24 years of marriage and seven children. But most of the credit for the seven children should go to his wife more than to him."

Huckabee later praised the Heritage Ministry and its efforts to preserve historical sites across the country. He said he first visited Israel in 1973 and, even after more than 100 visits, still discovers new places and sites in the country. He also stressed the deep connection between Jewish history and Western civilization and the United States.

"Without Israel, without Jewish heritage and without preserving God's purpose and laws, Western civilization would not exist and America would not exist," he said. Huckabee ended by expressing hope that Israel would continue to be a light to the world and by offering blessings to Israel and the United States.