Following muted reactions from US officials, Huckabee condemned the incident as a "criminal and terrorist act," sparking scrutiny over the US's stance on violence in the region. In a news briefing, President Donald Trump mentioned a forthcoming meeting regarding the matter. The Israeli military stated it is investigating, claiming that the fatal encounter involved a violent confrontation initiated by stone-throwing "terrorists." Musallat, who was visiting family from Tampa, Florida, was reportedly killed while trying to defend his family's land against encroaching settlers. Another casualty, 23-year-old Mohammed al-Shalabi, was shot during the altercation. The family of Musallat has pressed the US State Department to conduct an inquiry into the incident, highlighting the need for accountability. Huckabee has previously supported Israeli settlements, which many consider illegal under international law, and voiced concern over sanctions imposed by U.S. allies on far-right Israeli ministers accused of inciting violence against Palestinians.