Rising Violence During Olive Harvest in the West Bank

The olive harvest season in the West Bank, traditionally a time of community gathering and economic sustenance, has been marred by escalating violence from extremist Israeli settlers. This year, the harvest began on October 11, 2025, amidst a backdrop of heightened tensions following the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Palestinian Affairs reported a record 264 settler attacks in October alone, averaging eight incidents per day, impacting more communities and olive trees than in the past six years.

New York Times

Ayssam Ma’ala, a 13-year-old Palestinian boy, became the first fatality of this year's harvest after collapsing from tear gas exposure during an olive-picking attempt in Beita on October 11. Witnesses reported that Israeli soldiers fired tear gas as his family sought to harvest olives, having been previously driven from another grove by settlers. The Israeli military stated that the incident is under review, while activists claim that soldiers often side with settlers, exacerbating the violence.

New York TimesThe Hindu

Numerous incidents of violence have been reported during the harvest. On October 19, Afaf Abu Alia, a 53-year-old woman, was beaten unconscious by a masked Israeli man in Turmus Aya. Hekmat Shtewei, 51, was severely injured in Kufr Qaddum after being chased and assaulted by settlers. Eyewitness accounts describe a pervasive atmosphere of fear, with one local stating, “People here will not feel safe except in their graves.” Activists and journalists documenting the harvest have also faced violence, with reports of assaults on both local and international participants.

New York Times

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the violence, labeling the extremists as a minority that does not represent the broader settler community. He emphasized the need for law enforcement to address these incidents. IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir echoed this sentiment, stating that the violent acts “cross a red line” and detract from the military's primary mission. However, despite these declarations, investigations into settler violence have significantly declined, with only 60 cases opened in 2025 compared to 150 in 2024.

Times of Israel

While the IDF reported 86 incidents of “nationalistic crime” in October, the UN figures indicate a much higher rate of settler violence. Additionally, a significant majority of investigations into settler violence have historically resulted in no indictments, raising concerns about accountability and the effectiveness of law enforcement.

Times of Israel

• “What’s happening in the West Bank is a disgrace to humanity,” — Abd Al-Rahman Shtewei, Brother-in-law of Hekmat Shtewei

New York Times

• “We don’t want to use tear gas. Go, get out of here, beat it.” — Israeli soldier, as reported by a villager

New York Times

• “There’s a very, very strong sense of impunity, and lack of accountability,” — Mr. Pollak, Activist

New York Times

The ongoing violence during the olive harvest in the West Bank highlights the complex and volatile dynamics between settlers and Palestinian communities. As the Israeli government faces international scrutiny and internal pressure to address settler violence, the situation remains precarious, with the potential for further escalation as the harvest season continues.

New York Times