Jerusalem: US Ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, has described violence by illegal Israeli settlers against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank as 'terrorism.' During an interview with US-based News Nation on Wednesday, Huckabee emphasized that Israelis are also capable of terrorism, highlighting that the perpetrators are mostly youth who are angry and disaffected. He characterized them as 'thugs' rather than genuine settlers living in the area.
According to Anadolu Agency, the ambassador acknowledged an escalation in settler violence against Palestinian civilians, labeling these acts as terrorism. Huckabee assured that Israeli authorities are actively working to bring those responsible to justice, emphasizing that anyone committing acts of terror will face the full force of the law, regardless of their nationality.
The violence in the region has resulted in more than 1,076 Palestinian deaths and injuries to over 10,700 others due to attacks by the army and illegal settlers since October 2023. Additionally, over 20,500 individuals have been arrested. The Colonization and Wall Resistance Commission reported that illegal settlers have executed 7,154 attacks against Palestinians and their property in the West Bank during the same timeframe.
In a separate matter, when questioned about the Gaza ceasefire, Huckabee expressed optimism regarding the advancement of the agreement, describing the recent period as one of remarkable calm.
Regarding the US sale of F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, Huckabee dismissed any concerns from Tel Aviv, stating that Israel is assured of its military superiority in the Middle East due to statutory requirements from the US. He reaffirmed the US commitment to maintaining Israel's defense advantage, adding that both nations have an agreement ensuring this superiority.
The US and Saudi Arabia have recently signed several strategic agreements during Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's visit to Washington, including the sale of F-35 stealth fighter jets. US President Donald Trump mentioned that the jets intended for Saudi Arabia will be similar to those sold to Israel, emphasizing that both countries are significant US allies.