US House Speaker Mike Johnson made a high-profile visit to the occupied West Bank on Monday, voicing strong support for Israeli settlers amid ongoing international calls for a ceasefire in Gaza. The trip drew sharp condemnation from Palestinian officials, who accused Johnson of fueling tensions and obstructing peace efforts.
During the visit, Johnson met with Israeli settlers and declared that the “mountains of Judea and Samaria are the rightful property of the Jewish people,” asserting the territory must remain “an integral part” of Israel. He emphasized US support for the settlements despite global opposition, referencing recent moves by France and the UK to potentially recognize a Palestinian state if Israel fails to commit to ending the war in Gaza.
The speaker’s visit, accompanied by a group of Republican lawmakers, was privately organized by a pro-Israel group. Palestinian authorities denounced the trip, stating it undermined diplomatic efforts to end the conflict and perpetuated the cycle of violence in the region.