U.S. Confirms Death of American in West Bank Arson Attack

UPDATE: The U.S. State Department has confirmed the death of an American citizen in the West Bank, following a deadly incident attributed to arson by Israeli settlers. This incident occurred earlier this week in the village of Silwad, where violence has recently escalated amid ongoing tensions.

Khamis Ayyad, aged 41, succumbed to smoke inhalation after fires were reportedly set by Israeli settlers on Thursday, as confirmed by the Palestinian health ministry. The arson attack destroyed homes and vehicles, marking a significant surge in violence during an already tumultuous time in the region.

At a press conference in Chicago on Friday, Ayyad’s family expressed their grief, revealing that he had relocated to the West Bank with his wife and children several years ago while continuing to work for an American company. Tragically, Ayyad is at least the second American citizen to die from settler-related violence in July, following the brutal beating of a 20-year-old man in Sinjil.

Mike Huckabee, the U.S. ambassador to Israel, previously called for an investigation into the earlier killing, labeling it a “criminal and terrorist act.” However, there has been no immediate comment from him regarding Ayyad’s death.

The Israeli military has acknowledged that “several suspects” were involved in the Silwad incident, noting that forces dispatched to the area could not identify those responsible. Israeli police have initiated an investigation into the fires.

A State Department spokesperson confirmed the death of a U.S. citizen in Silwad, condemning all forms of violence in the West Bank. “We condemn criminal violence by any party in the West Bank,” the official stated, speaking on condition of anonymity.

The West Bank hosts approximately three million Palestinians living alongside about 500,000 Israeli settlers. The recent violence has intensified as tensions have risen since the outbreak of conflict in Gaza, triggered by Hamas’s attack on Israel in October 2023.

This tragic event underscores the escalating violence in the region, raising serious questions about security and the protection of civilians. As investigations proceed, the international community watches closely for developments that could impact peace efforts and the lives of those caught in the conflict.

As reactions continue to unfold, the situation remains fluid. Authorities and family members are urging for justice and accountability in the wake of these alarming incidents.