Huckabee Condemns Church Attack, Calls for Prosecution of Settlers

On Saturday, July 19th, US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee condemned an attack on a Palestinian church in the occupied West Bank, attributing blame to Israeli settlers. He labeled the incident an "act of terror" and called for the perpetrators to be prosecuted.

Huckabee's statement followed a visit to the Christian town of Taybeh. Clerics there reported that Israeli settlers had ignited a fire near a cemetery and a 5th-century church on July 8th.

In his statement, Huckabee emphasized that such acts of violence are criminal and that those responsible should be held accountable through prosecution, not just reprimands.

The Israeli government has yet to issue a public comment on the incident, although it has previously voiced disapproval of similar actions.

Earlier in the week, Huckabee had also urged Israel to thoroughly investigate the killing of a Palestinian American who was beaten by settlers in the West Bank, describing that incident as a "criminal and terrorist act" as well.

Huckabee's comments are notable, given his strong support for Israeli settlements. His public intervention represents a rare and pointed stance by the administration of US President Donald Trump.