US ambassador condemns settler attack on Washington Post journalist in West Bank

The U.S. ambassador to Israel has condemned a settler attack that left Washington Post photographer Heidi Levine seriously injured in the West Bank, according to WTOP. The attack occurred during an olive harvest in the village of Abu Falah. Levine was beaten for more than 10 minutes and had her camera stolen.

Levine was hospitalized and underwent hand surgery, suffering broken ribs and other injuries. The U.S. ambassador described the assault as a "despicable act of terror carried out by masked cowards" and called for a full investigation, arrests, and prosecution of those responsible.

Israeli police are investigating the attack, as well as a separate incident involving Israeli settlers and European diplomats in another West Bank village. The violence comes amid rising tensions and increased settler attacks against Palestinians ahead of upcoming Israeli elections.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned violence "against anyone" but referred to Levine's assault as "alleged," stating the circumstances remain unclear.