Key Takeaways

• American journalist Jasper Diamond Nathaniel faced a brutal settler attack in the West Bank.
• Nathaniel says the Israeli army lured him into an ambush with settlers.
• U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee has not publicly addressed this settler attack.
• Conservatives urge Huckabee to press Israel or update travel advisories.
• Similar attacks have harmed or killed other American citizens in the region.

Why Huckabee’s Silence on Settler Attack Sparks Outrage

American journalist Jasper Diamond Nathaniel was ambushed last Sunday in an olive grove near Turmus Ayya in the occupied West Bank. He posted videos showing masked Israeli settlers beating him and others, even knocking a woman unconscious. Nathaniel says the Israel Defense Forces guided him into the trap. Despite sharing evidence and pleading for help, he found out the U.S. Embassy could not protect him. Conservatives now criticize U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee for staying quiet.

Conservatives Demand Action After Settler Attack

Late Sunday, Nathaniel posted on social media: “Many injuries, including one woman beaten repeatedly. The IDF lured us into an ambush. I have it all on video.” He called for immediate arrests and protection for Palestinians. Soon after, Curt Mills from The American Conservative urged Huckabee to step in. Mills wrote: “Could you represent America first? Or at least change the travel advisory? I’ve never seen footage like this from Russia or Iran—both flagged as Do Not Travel.”

Meanwhile, Grace Chong from a prominent podcast joked that Huckabee was “too busy.” She shared a clip of him singing a pro-expansion version of a classic song. These posts highlight growing frustration that no U.S. statement has condemned the latest settler attack.

The U.S. Embassy reportedly told Nathaniel it could not intervene in this case. He shared screenshots of a chat where a staffer said Americans cannot get embassy protection in occupied areas. This led conservatives to argue that Americans receive fewer safeguards abroad than in countries with tougher travel warnings.

What Happened in Turmus Ayya

On Sunday, Nathaniel and a small group entered olive fields near this Palestinian town. He expected a peaceful visit. Instead, masked settlers attacked with clubs and stones. Soldiers watched but did not stop them. Nathaniel captured the violence on his phone. He described it as a calculated settler attack carried out under military supervision.

After the assault, he posted images of his injuries and of the beaten woman. He demanded that Israel hold attackers accountable and that the U.S. push for protection of all civilians in the West Bank.

Why Conservatives Are Speaking Out

Conservatives often back strong U.S.-Israel ties. Yet some now question unchecked settler violence. They want Ambassador Huckabee to pressure Israel’s government. Curt Mills called for a higher travel warning for Israel and the West Bank. He argued that Americans face more danger from settlers than from hostile regimes.

Grace Chong’s sarcastic comment points to a belief that Huckabee prioritizes political theater over real safety concerns. Critics see his pro-settlement public antics as out of step with calls to protect Americans abroad and uphold human rights.

History of American Casualties in the West Bank

Nathaniel is not alone. Over the years, about a dozen U.S. citizens have died in incidents involving settlers or soldiers. In 2003, American activist Rachel Corrie was killed by an armored bulldozer in Gaza. More recently, in July, 20-year-old Sayfollah Musallet was beaten to death by settlers on his family farm near Ramallah. His death drew international attention to growing settler violence.

These tragedies raise tough questions. Why do Americans under attack in occupied areas get limited support? Why does the U.S. issue travel warnings for some countries but not clearly flag danger in the West Bank? Conservatives now demand answers and action.

What Could Change Next?

First, Ambassador Huckabee could issue a formal protest to Israel’s leaders. He could push for an independent investigation into the settler attack. If Israel fails to act, the U.S. might raise its travel advisory level for the West Bank. This change would warn Americans about risks from settler violence and limited embassy protection.

Second, Congress could hold hearings on U.S. citizen safety in occupied territories. Lawmakers might question why the embassy told Nathaniel it could not help. They could push new policies to protect Americans abroad, even in disputed areas.

Finally, public pressure could prompt more media coverage. Greater awareness might lead Israel to curb settler attacks. It could also force the U.S. to balance its support for Israel with a duty to protect its citizens.

What’s Next for Journalists and Travelers

Journalists and travelers should review the State Department’s official travel advice before visiting the West Bank. They should register with the embassy and carry clear ID. They should also have a plan for emergencies. However, until the U.S. updates its warnings, Americans may face risks without full embassy support.

Meanwhile, the debate over this latest settler attack shows how foreign policy can become a domestic issue. Conservatives are urging their own ambassador to stand up for American citizens first. Their calls may shape future U.S. policy on occupied territories.

FAQs

Who is Jasper Diamond Nathaniel?

He is an independent journalist formerly associated with the Paris Review. He reported and filmed his own ambush by Israeli settlers in the West Bank.

What did Ambassador Huckabee say?

So far, he has not publicly commented on the settler attack or on calls for diplomatic pressure.

Why do conservatives care about this case?

They believe the U.S. should protect its citizens abroad and hold Israel accountable when Americans face violence.

How can travelers stay safe in the West Bank?

Before traveling, check the State Department’s travel advice, register with the U.S. Embassy, keep emergency contacts, and plan exit routes.