In Jerusalem, US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee criticized Representative Ro Khanna from California for allegedly spreading false information about coordination with the American Embassy during Khanna’s visit to the West Bank. Khanna claimed that during his visit last week, his group faced aggressive detainment by Israeli settlers. Critics interpreted Khanna’s visit as a political maneuver possibly related to a future presidential campaign.
Huckabee expressed his disagreement through a post, stating, “The left-wing activist who set up this stunt says ‘The embassy is involved.’ That is NOT TRUE. We did NOT know a member of Congress was coming. We would have said don’t go to a restricted zone. As FACTS come out, it’s not helping the desired narrative. Not ‘held at gunpoint.’”
Ro Khanna insisted that he had contacted the Israeli embassy, countering Huckabee’s statement, “That is just false. He was misinformed.” He emphasized that the Israeli papers and the IDF clarified that the area was not restricted. He thanked Deputy Chief of Mission David Brownstein in their embassy for assisting during the detainment incident.
David Brownstein did a superb job in getting us out. We are safe because of him.
Khanna called for accountability for the settlers and IDF officers, describing the encounter with armed settlers who blocked their vehicle and brandished weapons.
Eitan Fischberger, an Israeli analyst, shared footage supposedly dispelling Khanna’s claims of violent detainment. This was followed by further investigation and inquiries by Fox News.
Khanna stressed his intention to understand Palestinian viewpoints, mentioning previous visits to Israel and a desire to gain a deeper perspective from the Palestinian side.
Dan Diker, a critic of Khanna’s approach, described the visit as a publicity move aimed at enhancing his profile for a potential presidential run. Diker suggested Khanna’s history of activism aligned with pro-Palestinian sentiments.
Additionally, Representative Josh Gottheimer critiqued Khanna for focusing on a Palestinian-led tour rather than addressing the aftermath of attacks on Israelis.
Khanna defended his intentions, noting three prior visits to Israel and interactions with hostage families. He refuted claims of using the trip for personal political gain.
Yechiel Leiter, Israel’s Ambassador to the US, accused Khanna of creating an anti-Israel media frenzy. He argued Khanna ignored offers to coordinate his visit effectively, which might have prevented misunderstandings.
Congressman Khanna was offered to coordinate his visit with the State of Israel — this goes beyond notifying of his presence in the country.
In response, Khanna welcomed dialogue to address grievances constructively.
Both sides highlighted the complications of coordinating sensitive visits to the region. An IDF statement underlined the importance of coordination in preventing such incidents while confirming there was no violence during the encounter.
Khanna reiterated his condemnation of Hamas and affirmed support for Israel’s right to exist, despite contrasting accusations about the nature of his visit.
The dispute remains part of larger tensions involving US politics, Palestinian advocacy, and diplomatic relations in the region.