Bethlehem olive groves face 35% land loss due to restrictions

Approximately 35% of olive-growing lands in the Bethlehem Governorate, totaling about 9,000 dunams, have become inaccessible to farmers due to occupation measures and frequent settler attacks.

Abdul Wahab Al-Halaika, Director General of Agriculture for Bethlehem, reported that recent attacks have resulted in the uprooting of 1,776 olive trees and harmed more than 61 farmers. The incidents have occurred across various villages and towns, including Kissan, Al-Rashayda, and Beit Fajjar, among others.

To manage the 2026 olive harvest season, local committees are being formed in towns and villages to coordinate efforts, provide rapid response to emergencies, and enhance protection for farmers. The total olive-growing area in the governorate is 32,833 dunams, containing 656,660 trees. This season, production is expected to reach 3,404 tons of olives and 644 tons of olive oil.