As olive harvest nears, Palestinian farmers urgently need international protection: Opinion by Fareed Taamallah

As the olive harvest draws near, Palestinian farmers urgently require international protection, according to an opinion piece by Fareed Taamallah. Every October, the ancient olive groves in Taamallah's hometown, as well as those across the occupied West Bank, are bustling centers of life and labor. For generations, the olive harvest has been the economic backbone of Palestinians and a tangible connection to their ancestors. The olive tree, robust and deeply rooted, represents their identity and their bond to the land.

However, as this year's harvest approaches, the villagers are bracing for unprecedented fear. In recent weeks, the conditions in the West Bank have drastically worsened. Military incursions, arbitrary roadblocks, and daily assaults by armed settler militias have transformed the countryside into a heavily militarized zone. This season seems to be the most perilous they have ever experienced.

With Israeli elections scheduled for October 27th, political parties are openly vying to showcase the most aggressive stance towards Palestinians. Settlers now possess more formidable weaponry, including assault rifles and military gear, all supported by state institutions.

Even before the first olive is plucked, settler violence has already escalated to alarming levels. The UN has reported an average of over six attacks per day in August alone. This terror is particularly close to Taamallah's heart. In his village of Qira, nestled in the Salfit governorate, his family and neighbors are filled with dread as they await the harvest. Their ancestral groves, like those in neighboring villages, face threats from illegal settlements and outposts surrounding them.