Holy Land: Rabbis attacked while helping Palestinian farmers

Illegal settlers attack RHR activist. Image: RHR

Source: Rabbis For Human Rights

Rabbis for Human Rights report:

On Friday our activists arrived in Wadi Rahim, South Hebron Hills, to support the Hureini family in harvesting their crops. The land, which is privately owned by the (Palestinian) family, has faced repeated incursions by settlers from Mitzpe Yair and Susiya who have been using their sheep to graze on the fields, attempting to destroy the crops and steal the land.

Earlier this year, we helped plant olive trees as a symbol of hope and resilience, only to return weeks later and find that settlers had uprooted them.

We've also supported the Hureinis during wheat planting season as a protective presence.

On Friday, as we worked to move settlers' sheep off the private land, violence quickly ensued. Settlers arrived with army-like uniforms and attempted to arrest Palestinian minors. One of our activists was choked, thrown to the ground, and had their phone smashed by a settler dressed in an army uniform.

Despite the aggression, we stood firm. The army and police eventually arrived, expelled the settlers, and allowed us to continue the harvest.

Following Friday's attack, we returned - this time with diplomats - to expose the reality on the ground and stand in solidarity with the targeted communities. Together, we met with local council leaders, heard testimonies from residents, and witnessed firsthand the daily threats they face. Our presence, especially alongside international representatives, sends a clear message: these communities are not alone.

Watch video footage from the attack: www.youtube.com/shorts/GvqNKbOcgqg

Read +972 Report on the Incident: www.972mag.com/palestinian-wheat-harvest-wadi-al-rakhim/