US Embassy Aide Altered Reports On Israeli Activities

David Milstein, a key aide to US Ambassador Mike Huckabee, has been accused of editing or blocking reports that would have criticized Israeli activities in the West Bank and Gaza, according to a New York Times investigation. The report cites multiple US officials and diplomats who claim Milstein altered or delayed communications about illegal settlements, settler violence, and the killings of Palestinian Americans. The findings highlight concerns that information sent to Washington was being distorted, raising questions about the integrity of diplomatic reporting. Milstein's actions reportedly went beyond those of previous aides, with some officials expressing alarm over his influence on the embassy's messaging. The report also notes that Milstein's interventions sometimes contradicted the policies of former President Donald Trump, particularly regarding Israeli settlement expansion in the West Bank. In one instance, the embassy prepared a report on illegal Israeli settlement expansion, but Milstein blocked its transmission, according to US officials. This pattern of interference has drawn international attention, with countries like the UK, Canada, and France imposing sanctions on Israeli settlements. The report also details how Milstein altered a cable about the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, downplaying its role in Palestinian deaths. The NYT further notes that Milstein's actions have led to a significant reduction in the number of diplomatic cables sent from the embassy, with some staff fearing their reports would be altered. The report also mentions that Milstein previously worked for Senator Ted Cruz and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, and has a connection to the right-wing radio host Mark Levin, a close ally of both Trump and Netanyahu.