THE OLIVE TREE PROJECT

REPLANTING PALESTINE’S TREES

Since the Israeli occupation of the West Bank in 1967, Palestinian farmers have lost thousands of acres of land – confiscated for illegal Israeli settlements or by military order for ‘security’ reasons. Hundreds of thousands of olive trees have been destroyed in the process.  Many have been deliberately burnt or uprooted by Israeli settlers – as land without a tended crop is easier to claim as vacant and seize.

We’re working to replace trees destroyed by the conflict and prevent more land from being confiscated. Planting saplings on fields at risk of confiscation means Palestinian farmers can continue to work their land, which helps maintain the farmers’ rights to their own land. It also preserves an important source of income and sustenance.

You can help us by sponsoring a tree for just £15. A sponsored olive tree makes a great gift. Together, we can help families hold on to their livelihood and keep hope alive. 

PLANTING NEW OLIVE TREES IS NEEDED NOW MORE THAN EVER

Since 7th October attacks and the war in Gaza, Israeli authorities have taken advantage of the turmoil to further tighten their hold on the West Bank. More land is under threat of seizure and the olive planting and harvesting seasons have become increasingly difficult. Movement restrictions have prevented farmers from accessing their land and in 2023 this left more than 96,000 dunums of olive groves uncultivated. Settler attacks on farmers and their trees have also increased significantly with the UN reporting that hundreds of trees were burned or cut down during the most recent harvest.

Olive trees have long been symbols of Palestinian culture and resilience, and many Palestinians are turning to farming, and planting olive trees, as a direct way to defend their heritage and preserve their land.