Mike Huckabee slams Macron’s Palestinian push: "Carve out the Riviera!" | WATCH

US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee sharply rebuked French President Emmanuel Macron’s push to establish a Palestinian state, even as Hamas remains in power, by suggesting France offer its own territory if it’s so committed to the cause.

In an interview with Fox News Digital, Huckabee condemned the timing and premise of Macron’s initiative. “It’s incredibly inappropriate in the midst of a war that Israel is dealing with to go out and present something that I think increasingly Israelis are steadfast against,” he said.

Referring to the October 7 massacre perpetrated by Hamas, Huckabee said, “Oct. 7 changed a lot of things. If France is really so determined to see a Palestinian state, I have a suggestion for them: carve out a piece of the French Riviera and create a Palestinian state. They are welcome to do that, but they are not welcome to impose that kind of pressure on a sovereign nation. And I find it revolting that they think they have the right to do such a thing.”

He also confirmed the U.S. will not take part in a French and Saudi-backed UN conference later this month focused on Palestinian statehood.

Macron recently drew backlash for accusing Israel of excessive force in Gaza and for asserting that establishing a Palestinian state is “not only a moral obligation, but a political necessity.” Reports indicate the French government may pursue unilateral recognition of a Palestinian state, without requiring peace with Israel or the removal of Hamas from power.