Israeli Forces Detain Brad Lander in West Bank
Israeli forces detained about 80 volunteers near Bethlehem in the West Bank. Brad Lander was among them.
Sources say volunteers helped Palestinian farmers reach groves amid settler attacks. The Guardian described them as American, Israeli and British volunteers.
NPR described them as American and Israeli rabbis and activists. The volunteers were held near Nahalin and taken to a police station.
Lander said he was freed after about three hours. Israeli authorities said the harvest lacked coordination and posed a security risk.
Organizers said volunteers were harvesting peacefully before security forces arrived. Authorities disputed reports that a map showed no prior coordination.
Klear Note — Olive harvests are an important part of Palestinian farming and livelihoods.
Key Terms 3
- West Bank Territory where Palestinians live, under Israeli military control.
- Settlement Israeli community built on land Palestinians claim.
- Civil Administration Israeli government office that manages civilian affairs in the West Bank.