West Bank: US Amb. Huckabee threatens sanctions against Israeli settlers
The ambassador raised the possibility of US sanctions against those involved in surrounding Palestinian homes in Qusra, including potential bans on entry to the United States
US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee has strongly condemned alleged attacks targeting properties belonging to Palestinian-Americans in the West Bank, warning that such acts violate not only Israeli law but also what he described as “God’s law.”
Speaking in Jerusalem, Huckabee invoked the biblical commandment “Thou shalt not steal,” stressing that no one has the right to seize a home or land that does not belong to them.
His remarks followed an incident in the village of Qusra, south of Nablus, where several Palestinian homes were surrounded for more than a week by Israeli residents. One of the affected properties reportedly belongs to Loui Ridi, a Palestinian-American who lives in the United States.
Huckabee said he was “dismayed” by the reports and described the alleged attacks as “inexcusable and repugnant” criminal acts. He said those responsible, if identified, should face serious consequences under Israeli law.
The ambassador also raised the possibility of US sanctions against those involved, including potential bans on entry to the United States, while stressing that he was not aware of any specific measures currently under consideration.
Huckabee emphasized that he believes those responsible for violence represent a minority and do not speak for the broader settler community in West Bank.