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Occupied Territories: Olives

Question for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office

UIN HL3639, tabled on 2 November 2021

To ask Her Majesty's Government what representations they have made to the government of Israel about Palestinians being prevented from harvesting their olive crops in occupied territory by (1) Israeli forces, and (2) Israeli settlers.

Answered on

15 November 2021

We are aware of the particular significance of olive trees given their status as a national symbol and the sole source of income for many Palestinian farmers. We have repeatedly raised the issue of incidents of settler violence, including the destruction of olive trees, with the Israeli authorities. We continue to urge them to investigate thoroughly every instance to bring those responsible to justice and of the Israeli security forces providing appropriate protection to the Palestinian civilian population.