US envoy on West Bank visit says Israel has responsibility for Palestinians

US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee, during a visit to the West Bank town of Turmus Ayya, stated that the Israeli government bears responsibility for the safety of Palestinians and should impose severe consequences for violence. Huckabee, a long-time supporter of Israel, met with Palestinian-American families whose homes have been repeatedly targeted by settlers. He emphasized that residents in these communities have a right to live with security and that the government is responsible for ensuring it. Huckabee stated that "crime is crime, terror is terror" and that perpetrators should expect severe consequences. He added that taking action is in Israel's best interest, as the actions of a "tiny little group of marauders" damage the country's reputation. During the visit, local residents such as Samir Hazmeh and Yasser Alqam described repeated attacks on their homes and land, calling for increased US pressure on Israel to arrest those responsible. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government, which includes far-right ministers, continues to approve new settlements, which are considered illegal under international law.