Palestinian farmers in West Bank face rising Israeli settler attacks

Palestinian villages in the West Bank are facing a surge in attacks by Israeli settlers. According to UN data, there were nearly 260 attacks against Palestinian homes, businesses and farms in October 2025 alone.

Agricultural lands – particularly olive groves – have become primary targets. These farms are the backbone of the local economy and a crucial source of income for many families. World Bank figures indicate that 74 percent of West Bank farmers have lost half of their income since 2023.

Read more'They’re allowed to do what they want': Palestinians describe surge in settler attacks

Israeli activists often join the farmers to provide what they call a “protective presence”. Yael Moav is one of them. She told the Observers team that these attacks aim to force Palestinians off their land. Moav says that Israeli authorities are supporting settlers and facilitating their presence in the West Bank.

We also spoke with a Palestinian olive farmer whose land is regularly targeted. He reports that settlers from a nearby outpost attack his farm on a weekly basis. 

According to the Israeli human rights organisation Yesh Din, 94 percent of cases involving offences committed by Israelis against Palestinians are closed with no charges being filed.