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The Day · Wednesday 17 December 2025

Filed 00:04 · Palestine time (UTC+2) · West Bank

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Israeli Settlers Burn Olive Trees Near Ramallah

Israeli settlers set fire to olive trees in an area near Ramallah. The incident highlights ongoing tensions in the region, with local landscapes once again targeted. The burning of agricultural land continues to draw concern from nearby residents, who rely on the trees for sustenance and livelihood.

NABLUS, WEST BANK – DECEMBER 08: A Palestinian man looks on as Israeli construction vehicles destroy agricultural lands and uproot centuries-old olive trees in the village of Karyut, south of the city of Nablus, West Bank on December 08, 2025. Palestinian farmers stated that the trees are the ‘memory of the village,’ while noting that hundreds of acres of land in the area are being targeted for a new settlement project. ( Issam Rimawi – Anadolu Agency )

Israeli settlers burned olive trees near Ramallah, targeting agricultural land in a continuing pattern that raises alarm among local residents. The incident occurred in an area close to the city, where olive trees have long symbolized both sustenance and identity. The action sparked immediate concern among community members, who described the act as part of ongoing threats to their livelihood and presence on the land.

Witnesses confirmed that the olive trees were set ablaze by settlers, with the fire spreading quickly across the grove. From its side, the local population expressed anger over the targeted destruction of a vital resource. Olive trees, deeply rooted in Palestinian heritage and economy, frequently come under attack in such incidents.

In addition to the environmental damage, the burning carries emotional and symbolic weight. Residents pointed to the pattern of aggression and the apparent intention to erase vital aspects of Palestinian existence. The affected area near Ramallah remains scorched as smoke lingers in the air.

Meanwhile, no immediate response from official channels was reported following the attack. Community groups and concerned villagers moved quickly to contain the destruction, but the loss was evident.

According to individuals present, the settlers entered the area and began setting the trees alight without warning. The deliberate nature of the fire left no doubt among residents about its intent. Many viewed the act as part of a broader effort to disrupt daily life and impose pressure on rural communities.

From its side, the affected community called for urgent intervention and protection. The repeated targeting of agricultural infrastructure and heritage trees contributes to increased instability in the area. Residents voiced fears that future acts could escalate if continued unchecked.

The heavy scent of charred branches filled the air hours after the fire was extinguished. Villagers, some of whom had cultivated the trees for decades, stood in silence near the damage. The loss goes beyond the physical, impacting both economic resilience and emotional ties to the land.

In addition, community leaders stressed the importance of documentation and resistance through presence. They reiterated their commitment to staying rooted despite ongoing challenges, citing the olive tree as a symbol of Palestinian perseverance.

The burning of olive trees near Ramallah stands as another reminder of the pressures facing rural communities. While the full extent of the damage is yet to be assessed, the impact is already clear in both material and symbolic terms. The area remains tense as residents brace for potential further incidents.

17 Dec, 00:04

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