U.S. Ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, engaged with Palestinian Americans, including families of U.S. citizens killed by Israeli settlers, during a visit to a Palestinian town in the occupied West Bank that has been a frequent target of settler attacks. This visit coincides with escalating international criticism of settler violence and perceived inaction by the Israeli government.
While the Israeli government has denounced settler violence, the lack of arrests and prosecutions of perpetrators has raised concerns. Despite not directly condemning Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s administration, the U.S. has called for the prosecution of those responsible, with Huckabee referring to them as terrorists.
During the meeting in Turmus Ayya, where a majority of Palestinian residents hold U.S. citizenship, the ambassador described the discussions as productive. Huckabee, known for his support of Israeli settlements, emphasized the need to hold violent settlers accountable while acknowledging that they represent a minority within the settler community.
The West Bank, home to approximately three million Palestinians, has witnessed a surge in settler violence and increased restrictions under Israeli military occupation since the rise of Netanyahu’s right-wing coalition in late 2022. Mayor Nawwaf Zaghoul of Turmus Ayya highlighted the ongoing settler attacks faced by residents, with about 80% of the town’s population being U.S. citizens.
Israeli settlements, including Shiloh, surround the town where Huckabee has made multiple visits since 2025. Referring to the region as Judea and Samaria, Huckabee has called for decisive action against individuals engaging in criminal acts and terrorism, stressing the importance of maintaining Israel’s reputation.
Following U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to lift sanctions on far-right Israeli settler groups in early 2025, Palestinian American spokesperson Yasser Alkam disputed Huckabee’s assessment, stating that thousands, not hundreds, of settlers are involved in violence against Palestinians. Alkam urged the U.S. to exert pressure on Israel to address the issue.
Huckabee reiterated to reporters that the U.S. Embassy lacks the authority to take direct action but can advocate for corrections on pertinent issues. The ambassador’s meeting with residents, including Hadeel Jabara, a Palestinian American widow whose husband was killed by settlers, was described as positive, with hopes for increased protection and safety for residents, especially children.
Since 2024, at least six Palestinian Americans have lost their lives in the occupied West Bank due to incidents involving the Israeli military or settlers. The ongoing situation underscores the complex dynamics and challenges faced by residents in the region.