Huckabee urges prosecution after settlers assault US journalist in West Bank

U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee demanded a full investigation, arrest and prosecution after Washington Post photojournalist Heidi Levine was assaulted on Oct. 16, 2026, covering the olive harvest in Abu Falah. On X he called attacking a female photographer a despicable act of terror carried out by masked cowards and said those who attacked the unarmed reporter should spend years in prison. Witnesses said settlers stormed the area, beat Levine and several Palestinians, and stole her passport, phone, wallet and equipment. Levine, 64, said they kicked her for about 10 minutes. She was hospitalized in Ramallah with a broken rib, multiple broken vertebrae, lacerations and a nearly detached finger that required surgery. Witness Jasper Nathaniel said she was in very bad shape and could not get up. Secretary of State Marco Rubio told reporters at Joint Base Andrews the U.S. was very disturbed and had asked Israel to crack down. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu suggested Palestinians or far-left activists might be responsible. The State Department initially condemned criminal violence by any party. Huckabee did not identify the attackers as settlers after that claim. Yesh Din recorded at least 170 pogroms since Sept. 27; elections are set for Oct. 27, 2026.