Daijiworld Media Network - Washington

Washington, Jul 16: The Trump administration has strongly condemned the killing of Saif Musallet, a Palestinian-American citizen who was beaten to death by Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank on Friday.

US ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, called the incident a “criminal and terrorist act” and urged Israeli authorities to launch a full and transparent investigation without delay.

“This is an outrage. We demand a full and transparent investigation into what was clearly a terrorist act. American lives must be protected, no matter where they are,” Huckabee said in a statement.

Musallet, a dual national, was reportedly dragged out of his vehicle and assaulted by a group of settlers near his village. He died on the spot. Despite Israeli authorities confirming an investigation, no arrests have been made so far.

The killing has triggered widespread outrage from human rights organisations and prompted renewed concerns over rising settler violence in the West Bank.

The Trump administration’s sharp reaction marks a rare public reprimand of Israeli actions and comes amid growing calls within the US to take a tougher stance on protecting American citizens abroad, especially in conflict zones.

Observers believe the incident could further strain US-Israel ties, with pressure mounting on both governments to ensure accountability and justice.