Story perspectives

Israeli Settlers Expand Control, Threatening Palestinian Farmers

4/2/2026

Summary

Story summary

Israeli settlers in the West Bank have intensified land seizures, fencing areas to extend control without orders.
Mohammed Azzam, a landowner in Qaryut, says settlers fenced off 21 dunams of olive trees, reducing his olive oil production.
Human rights organizations say Israeli policies block Palestinian farmers from accessing lands and settlers attack protesters.
Critics warn that a recent Israeli budget boosts settlement expansion and entrenches occupation.

History

Historical Context

In 1979, Israel's government officially endorsed settlements in the West Bank, a policy aimed at preventing a Palestinian state. By 2020, over 600,000 Israeli settlers lived in these areas, often leading to conflicts with Palestinians. The recent surge in land seizures by settlers reflects a long-standing strategy of territorial expansion, raising significant concerns about human rights and the future of Palestinian statehood.

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Story summary

Israeli settlers in the West Bank have intensified land seizures, fencing areas to extend control without orders.
Mohammed Azzam, a landowner in Qaryut, says settlers fenced off 21 dunams of olive trees, reducing his olive oil production.
Human rights organizations say Israeli policies block Palestinian farmers from accessing lands and settlers attack protesters.
Critics warn that a recent Israeli budget boosts settlement expansion and entrenches occupation.

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