American Man Killed by Israeli Settlers in the West Bank, Family Says

A 20-year-old American citizen from Florida, Sayfollah “Saif” Musallet, was allegedly beaten to death by Israeli settlers while visiting family in the West Bank town of Sinjil, according to his relatives and Palestinian health officials.

Family Alleges He Was Targeted While Protecting Land

Musallet was reportedly trying to defend his family’s land when settlers surrounded him for over three hours, his family said. They claim the group blocked emergency responders, and Musallet died before reaching the hospital. A second Palestinian man was also killed in the same incident, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry.

Born in Florida, Remembered for His Generosity

Musallet was born in Florida, lived in Tampa, and ran a successful business there.

“He was a kind, hard-working, and deeply-respected young man… known for his generosity, ambition, and connection to his Palestinian heritage,” his family said in a statement.

Fifth American Killed in West Bank Since October 2023

Musallet is the fifth American to die in the West Bank since the Israel-Hamas war began on October 7, 2023. The conflict began with a Hamas-led attack that killed 1,200 people in southern Israel.

Israeli Officials Investigating the Incident

The Israel Defense Forces acknowledged reports of a fatality and injuries in a “violent confrontation” that involved “vandalism, arson, physical clashes, and rock hurling.” The IDF said the matter is being investigated by Israeli authorities.

Family Demands U.S. Investigation

Musallet’s family is calling for immediate action.

“We demand the U.S. State Department lead an immediate investigation and hold the Israeli settlers who killed Musallet accountable,” they said. “This is an unimaginable nightmare and injustice that no family should ever have to face.”

The U.S. State Department confirmed it is aware of the incident but declined to comment further “out of respect for the privacy of the family and loved ones.”

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