Tue Jul 15 20:19:31 UTC 2025: **U.S. Envoy Calls Killing of American Citizen in West Bank a ‘Terrorist Act,’ Demands Investigation**
**Washington, D.C.** – In a rare display of criticism towards Israel, U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee has condemned the killing of 20-year-old Sayfollah Musallet, a Florida-born American citizen, in the occupied West Bank as a “criminal and terrorist act.” Musallet was allegedly beaten to death by Israeli settlers in the Palestinian town of Sinjil.
Huckabee stated on Tuesday that he had urged Israel to “aggressively investigate” the incident, which occurred while Musallet was visiting family. His strong words come amidst growing calls for accountability from U.S. lawmakers, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, who described the killing as “shocking and appalling,” and Congressman Maxwell Frost, who demanded a thorough investigation by the State Department.
“There must be accountability for this criminal and terrorist act,” Huckabee wrote on social media. “Saif was just 20 yrs old.”
While stopping short of endorsing the Musallet family’s request for an independent U.S. probe, Huckabee’s statement represents a departure from his typically unwavering support for Israel. In the past, he has even questioned the existence of a Palestinian identity.
The incident has also renewed scrutiny of settler violence in the West Bank, which has reportedly escalated since the outbreak of the war in Gaza. Reports indicate Israeli settlers frequently attack Palestinian communities, often under the protection of the Israeli military.
Critics point out that Israel rarely holds settlers or soldiers accountable for violence against Palestinians. Musallet’s death marks the ninth instance of an American citizen being killed by Israelis since 2022, with none of the previous cases leading to criminal charges.
The Trump administration has come under pressure to respond, particularly given the President’s past actions regarding sanctions on settlers. Trump lifted sanctions related to settler attacks, after returning to the White House earlier this year.
The Israeli military has stated it is “investigating” the events in Sinjil, claiming that clashes erupted after Palestinians threw rocks at an Israeli vehicle. However, the Musallet family disputes this account, alleging that a “mob” of settlers surrounded the young man for three hours, preventing medical personnel from reaching him.
While some members of Congress have expressed outrage, many Florida Republican politicians have remained silent on Musallet’s death. Senator Rick Scott has posted several social media posts in support of Israel since Musallet was killed.
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