Huckabee calls to investigate death of Palestinian-American in clash with Israeli civilians

This marks a rare moment in which Huckabee, a prominent supporter of Israel’s settlement movement, has publicly addressed violence involving Israeli civilians and Palestinians.

By Vered Weiss, World Israel News

In an unusual and pointed public statement, US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee has urged Israeli authorities to “aggressively investigate the murder” of Palestinian-American Saif Musalat.

The 20-year-old was reportedly beaten to death last week during a violent altercation near the village of Sinjil, north of Ramallah, although the details of the incident are still uncertain.

“There must be accountability for this criminal and terrorist act. Saif was just 20 years old,” Huckabee wrote on X, calling attention to the killing.

This marks a rare moment in which Huckabee, a prominent supporter of Israel’s settlement movement, has publicly addressed violence involving Israeli civilians and Palestinians.

Huckabee, a devout evangelical Christian, has long backed Israeli claims to Judea and Samaria and has frequently advocated for its annexation. His stance has made him a figure of support among pro-settler groups.

On Friday, witnesses reported seeing Arabs attacking Israeli residents of Binyamin, pelting them with stones and using slingshots.

Palestinian sources claimed later on Friday night that two Arabs died during the riot, and Hamas issued a statement declaring them “martyrs.”

Jewish settlement leaders released a statement saying, “One of the deceased, according to Palestinian allegations, was killed by live fire. We urge the IDF to investigate the event and lend support to the soldiers who acted against the violent rioters,” they said.

Musalat, a US citizen from Florida, was visiting family when he became involved in a confrontation with Israelis. His relatives claim he was severely beaten, denied medical aid, and died before reaching a hospital.

While much of the media is accusing the settlers, Israeli authorities have not confirmed who was responsible. A joint police and military investigation is underway.