‘Ominous start’ to West Bank olive harvest amid settler attacks

21 October 2026 Peace and Security

The use of live ammunition, arson and the destruction of centuries-old olive trees have marked the opening weeks of this year’s harvest in the occupied West Bank.

At least 160 Israeli settler attacks linked to the olive harvest were recorded in the first two weeks of October, according to the UN aid coordination office ( OCHA ) – often under the protection of, or with the participation of, Israeli forces.

Settlers have also damaged Palestinian property and stolen harvested olives and farm equipment.…