Kathmandu— In a widening campaign of destruction, Israeli authorities and settlers have razed thousands of olive trees and structures in Arraba, a key agricultural region in the northern West Bank. The actions, which have intensified since March, are part of a broader strategy to control the land and displace Palestinian farmers, according to local officials and residents.

Community Response and Resilience

Despite the destruction, local residents remain defiant. Ahmed al-Fari, a nephew of Khalil al-Fari, described the emotional impact of seeing his family’s 150 trees uprooted. He emphasized the cultural and historical significance of the olive trees, which have been part of their family’s heritage for generations. The young father, who has two small children, expressed a strong will to resist, stating, 'You can’t erase our roots. Our roots go deeper.'

The situation in Arraba continues to deteriorate, with ongoing destruction and increased settler activity. Local officials and residents are calling for international attention and action to address the growing threat to their livelihoods and way of life.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

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Originally published on abcnews.com.np.