Amitai, a 12-year-old boy from Atlit living with autism and who is passionate about history, diplomacy, and international relations, met with US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee at the Embassy in Jerusalem.
During the meeting, the two discussed US-Israel relations, diplomacy, and prospects for expanding regional agreements to additional nations.
Right at the start of their meeting, Huckabee presented Amitai with a lapel pin and declared with a smile: "I hereby declare you Ambassador of the United States of America."
Amitai, who was deeply moved ahead of the meeting, shared that he could barely sleep the night before and praised Huckabee: "Not many people are advocating for Israel, so Mike Huckabee is like a miracle from heaven."
Continuing in English, Amitai introduced himself and spoke about his passions. "I have autism, and one of my biggest interests is history, diplomacy, and international relations," he said, adding that he loves reading, learning new things, and understanding how countries can work together.
When Huckabee asked what he wants to be when he grows up, Amitai replied, "I want to be a diplomat." He then paused and added, "I think about it, maybe I will also be a Prime Minister or Foreign Minister."
Turning directly to Huckabee, he expressed his appreciation: "I would like to thank you for your friendship with Israel, your support over many years, and the important work you do to strengthen the relationship between our two countries. We must cooperate more and more."
An impressed Huckabee responded: "Amitai, you are much smarter than almost everybody I know in government and in diplomacy. I’m kind of like you - I was into politics when I was very young."
Amitai took the opportunity to ask a diplomatic question, inquiring whether Huckabee believed regional normalization agreements could be expanded to more countries. Huckabee smiled and quipped, "I think we need to send you to Riyadh to talk to the Crown Prince, and represent all of the Israeli interests, and explain to him why it would be good for him."
Amitai emphasized why he feels so strongly about engaging in politics and diplomacy: "I think kids have a lot to contribute. Israel and the United States of America should eliminate antisemitism from all over the world, and terrorism and extremism. It seems like it’s impossible, but I think it’s possible."
Another moment that caught the Ambassador off guard occurred when Huckabee pointed to a guitar, mentioning that his wife had given it to him for Christmas a year ago. Amitai immediately blurted out her name: "Janet!" Huckabee replied, "You knew her name! You really do your homework, don't you? You're outstanding."
As the meeting wrapped up, the two exchanged warm wishes, with Amitai remarking with a smile, "I'm a little ambassador now."
Following the visit, Huckabee shared his thoughts on the encounter, noting that while he has met numerous presidents and prime ministers over the years with a deep understanding of world affairs, very few have impressed him as much as 12-year-old Amitai from Atlit.
Huckabee praised Amitai as an inspiring young man who "truly gets it," adding that hosting him at the US Embassy in Jerusalem was a pleasure.
(Arutz Sheva-Israel National News' North American desk is keeping you updated until the start of Shabbat in New York. The time posted automatically on all Israel National News articles, however, is Israeli time.)