Volunteers Defy Danger to Support Palestinians During Crucial Olive Harvest
Despite challenges and increasing danger, volunteers continue to support Palestinians in the West Bank, with groups like the International Solidarity Movement and the Union of Agricultural Work Committees leading the effort. The olive harvest, a crucial time for Palestinians, is underway despite settler attacks keeping farmers from their lands. The Tent of Nations, a vast farm covering 75 football fields, offers a stunning view of ancient terraces engineered by Palestinians.
The Nassar family, who have stewarded their farm, the Tent of Nations, for generations, face threats from five nearby illegal Israeli settlements. They host volunteers from around the globe to bear witness to their struggle and tend to the farm, providing a 'protective presence' against settler attacks. Meanwhile, the Israeli government has opened the door for another 100,000 Israelis to legally buy guns, raising concerns about potential escalations. The olive harvest, a tradition where families assist each other in picking olives, is particularly important this year as it may be the last chance for farmers like Abbas Milhem to cultivate their crops due to ongoing settler attacks.
International solidarity is crucial but dangerous during the olive harvest, with volunteers continuing to come to Palestine despite the challenges. The Israeli government's decision to allow more citizens to own firearms adds complexity to the situation. The Tent of Nations, a symbol of Palestinian resilience, stands as a testament to the family's commitment to their land and heritage.
