Huckabee calls for prosecution of journalist's West Bank attackers

U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee condemned the violent attack on American journalist Heidi Levine by a group of masked men in the West Bank. The attack occurred during the olive harvest and left Levine, along with several Palestinians, injured. Huckabee called the assault "vicious" and "cowardly," emphasizing that Levine is an American citizen and had identified herself as a journalist.

He demanded that those responsible for the attack be held accountable, urging a full investigation, arrest, and prosecution of the assailants. Critics condemned the act as a despicable terror operation carried out by masked cowards. Video footage captured the moment Levine was surrounded, pushed to the ground, and beaten by the masked attackers, who stole her camera equipment.

The Washington Post confirmed the incident, describing Levine being knocked down, repeatedly kicked, and robbed of her cameras and phone despite wearing protective gear. Israeli officials acknowledged opening investigations into the incident, though Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu referred to the attack as "alleged" and noted the circumstances remained unclear.

Levine, a seasoned photojournalist with decades of experience covering conflict zones, is currently hospitalized in Tel Aviv recovering from her injuries, which included hand surgery, broken ribs, and other trauma.