Italy brings back five activists held by Israeli forces in the West Bank

Italy's Foreign Ministry announced that five Italian activists detained in the West Bank have been released and sent back home. The women were taken into custody on Thursday by Israeli police in Kiryat Arba alongside other international activists. They were present to protect Palestinian farmers during the olive harvest in the occupied territory. Officials from the Italian embassy in Tel Aviv met them at the airport on Friday evening and confirmed they appeared to be in good physical condition.

Context

Olive farming forms a major part of the rural economy in the West Bank. However, the seasonal harvest often sees high tensions and reported violence involving settlers and farmers. International volunteers frequently travel to the region to monitor the situation and support local communities during this period.