Anabta:A central olive-picking event was organized in the town of Anabta by the preparatory committee for the 2026 Olive Campaign in Tulkarm Governorate. This initiative, held in cooperation with Anabta Municipality and under the patronage of Tulkarm Governor Abdullah Kmeil and Minister of Agriculture Rizq Salmiya, aims to support farmers facing challenges due to colonist attacks.
According to Palestine news and Information Agency, the event received funding from the Union of Palestinian Farmers' Associations and saw participation from representatives of the security establishment, official institutions, civil society organizations, and the private sector. This collective effort seeks to assist farmers during the olive harvest season.
Governor Kmeil emphasized the importance of standing with Palestinian farmers who endure difficult conditions due to aggression from Israeli occupation forces and colonists. These challenges include theft of olive crops, destruction of property, and assaults on farmers. He highlighted that the solidarity initiative serves as a testament to the continuous support for farmers and reflects the Palestinian people's commitment to their agricultural workers. The event aimed to convey a message of unity and support, assuring farmers they are not alone in their struggles.
Kmeil further explained that the most significant challenges are in areas surrounded by colonies and the annexation and expansion wall, where farmers face attacks under the protection of Israeli forces. This situation exacerbates the suffering of farmers and threatens their livelihoods due to the theft of olive crops.
Director General of the Tulkarm Agriculture Directorate Ashraf Anabtawi noted that the event is part of the Ministry of Agriculture's program and field interventions, conducted in collaboration with partner organizations to sustain support for farmers. Efforts include providing necessary assistance and organizing volunteer campaigns and field initiatives aimed at mitigating the impact of continued colonist attacks, protecting agricultural land, and securing rural families' sources of income.