US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee has urged Israeli officials to "aggressively investigate" the tragic death of Sayfollah Musallat, a dual American-Palestinian citizen, who was reportedly beaten to death by Israeli settlers in the West Bank town of Sinjil. The incident has escalated concerns over violence in the region, as Huckabee, having initially been criticized for a subdued response, later condemned the act as a "criminal and terrorist act."
Musallat, 20, was fatally assaulted on Friday, according to the Palestinian health ministry, while visiting family in Sinjil, situated north of Ramallah. His companion, 23-year-old Mohammed al-Shalabi, was also killed after sustaining a gunshot wound to the chest. The families of the victims allege that Musallat was defending his family's land against encroaching settlers when the violence occurred, and they have called for the U.S. State Department to initiate an inquiry into the matter.
In response to the incident, President Donald Trump stated that a meeting would be held on Thursday regarding the events surrounding Musallat's death. Meanwhile, the Israeli military has claimed that a "violent confrontation" arose when "terrorists" reportedly threw stones at civilians, a narrative that has drawn scrutiny.
Musallat's family described the heart-wrenching circumstances leading to his death, alleging that settlers obstructed an ambulance trying to reach him, resulting in delays that contributed to his fatal injuries. Huckabee expressed the need for accountability for what he termed a "criminal and terrorist act," emphasizing the age of the victim.
The ambassador, known for his strong support for Israeli settlements, which are deemed illegal under international law, has faced opposition from Democrats in the U.S. over previous controversial comments concerning the ongoing Gaza conflict. He has been an advocate for what he terms a "greater Israel," insisting on permanent control of the Occupied Palestinian Territories and using biblical references to describe the West Bank.
This tragic incident comes amid increasing tensions and violence in the West Bank, with the international community closely monitoring the situation.
