US Lawmaker Calls Netanyahu a “Liar” After Settlers Beat American Photographer

U.S. Representative Ro Khanna has labeled Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a liar and demanded an end to U.S. aid supporting settler activity following the assault of American photojournalist Heidi Levine in the West Bank.

U.S. Representative Ro Khanna has publicly criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, calling him a liar and demanding an end to American aid that supports Israeli settler activity. The demand follows an attack on veteran photojournalist Heidi Levine in the occupied West Bank.

Levine was beaten while covering Palestinian farmers harvesting olives near Abu Falah on Friday. Witnesses reported that dozens of masked settlers attacked villagers and journalists, knocking Levine to the ground, kicking her repeatedly, and taking her equipment. She was subsequently hospitalized in Ramallah with serious injuries, including a broken rib and fractured vertebrae.

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The incident occurred during a broader wave of violence accompanying the annual olive harvest in the West Bank. Israeli rights group Yesh Din has documented numerous attacks since September 27, raising concerns regarding the safety of civilians and journalists documenting the events. Witnesses noted that Israeli security forces were present during the assault on Levine but did not intervene to stop the attackers.

In response to the violence, Khanna criticized the perceived impunity enjoyed by Israeli settlers and urged that U.S. assistance financing their activities be cut off. Israeli authorities stated that the incident is under investigation, while Netanyahu’s office initially noted that questions remain regarding the circumstances and responsibility.

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