Former Republican presidential candidate and U.N. ambassador Nikki Haley made headlines this week after she visited Israel and wrote “Finish them” on an artillery shell. The controversial act took place just days after Israel faced international backlash for a strike that resulted in the deaths of numerous Gazan civilians.
Haley’s visit to Israel included a stop near the country’s northern border with Lebanon, where she signed the shell. She also visited a kibbutz where Israelis were killed on Oct. 7 and met with top Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant.
The former ambassador’s message on the artillery shell sparked criticism from some commentators, with author and columnist Wajahat Ali warning that Republicans like Haley would be even harsher on Gaza than the current administration.
In an interview with Israel Hayom, Haley defended Israel’s actions in Gaza, stating that the country had done nothing wrong in its invasion and bombardment of the region. She emphasized the need for the United States to continue supporting Israel unconditionally.
Haley’s unwavering support for Israel aligns with her past actions as U.N. ambassador, where she criticized the international community for its treatment of Israel and cut funding to a Palestinian refugee agency. Despite previously distancing herself from former President Trump, Haley has recently shown support for him, leading to speculation that she may rejoin his team in the future.