Nablus Governor Warns of Escalating Settler Attacks During Olive Harvest
Translated & summarized from Al-Shams by baba
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- 35 Palestinians injured in two days by settler attacks during olive harvest.
- Governor Daghlas highlights the economic and cultural importance of the olive harvest.
- Farmers face intimidation, violence, and movement restrictions.
- Governor links violence surge to upcoming Israeli elections.
- International intervention is called for to protect farmers.
Ghassan Daghlas, the Governor of Nablus, reported that 35 Palestinians were injured over a two-day period, including several serious cases, due to escalating settler attacks coinciding with the crucial olive harvest season. Daghlas emphasized that the olive harvest is more than just an agricultural season for Palestinians; it is a primary source of income and a means of maintaining their connection to the land, especially given difficult economic conditions and declining job opportunities.
He described the current situation as extremely challenging, with farmers facing fear, intimidation, and movement restrictions as they attempt to reach their olive groves. Daghlas recounted specific incidents, including a man from Beit Furik who was allegedly shot at four times in the abdomen by an armed settler but survived, and an elderly couple who sustained injuries and fractures from an attack. These attacks, he stated, have a significant impact on farmers trying to access their land.
Daghlas also noted that Israeli solidarity groups have faced attacks in the past, citing the burning of vehicles belonging to a group of activists in Burin years ago. He extended an invitation for international supporters of human rights and democracy to visit the Palestinian areas, while acknowledging that even these solidarity activists have been targeted.
The Governor linked the surge in violence to the approaching Israeli elections, suggesting that the olive harvest is becoming a political battleground for extremist rhetoric. He predicted that the situation on the ground could worsen as the elections draw nearer and called for international intervention to halt the attacks and ensure farmers' access to their land.
Addressing Palestinian citizens of Arab descent in Israel, Daghlas urged them to unite their votes, highlighting the impact Israeli election results have on the political and ground situation. He reiterated the Palestinian aspiration for a life of freedom and dignity, underscoring their deep attachment to their land and livelihoods, particularly the olive harvest.
