US Envoy Warns Israeli Settlers Over Palestinian American Property

U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee has warned Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank against seizing property belonging to Palestinian Americans, saying those responsible could potentially face U.S. sanctions.

Huckabee made the remarks after settlers surrounded homes in the West Bank village of Qusra beginning August 9. Among the properties targeted was the home of Palestinian American Loui Ridi. Rights groups have described the incident as an attempt to take privately owned Palestinian land.

Israel’s military deployed dozens of troops and pushed the settlers away from the homes, although residents say they remain nearby and fear further attempts to encroach on their property after soldiers leave.

Speaking to Reuters in Jerusalem, Huckabee said the Trump administration’s position reflected a broader principle of respecting private ownership. Citing the Ten Commandments, the Baptist minister said, “Thou shalt not steal,” adding that forcing families from property they legally own violates both civil and religious principles.

Huckabee, who previously described those behind the Qusra incident as “Israeli terrorists,” said Washington was “appalled” by the episode. He called the alleged actions “inexcusable and repugnant” and said perpetrators should face serious consequences under Israeli law.

The ambassador added that individuals found responsible could potentially face U.S. measures, including restrictions on entering the United States. However, he said he was unaware of any specific sanctions currently being considered.

U.S. officials estimate that tens of thousands of Palestinian Americans live in the West Bank. Ridi said he has remained in contact with the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem but continues to experience harassment from settlers near his property.

Huckabee, the first evangelical Christian to serve as U.S. ambassador to Israel, has long supported Israeli settlements in the West Bank. He argued that violent settlers represent a minority within the broader community.

Most countries and U.N. bodies consider Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank illegal under international law, a position Israel disputes.

Israeli police have not announced arrests or charges related to the Qusra incident, while Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has not publicly addressed the case. A senior Israeli settler leader has condemned the settlers’ actions.