US congressional candidate Brad Lander freed after West Bank detention
US congressional candidate Brad Lander was briefly detained by Israeli forces while volunteering to help Palestinian farmers harvest olives in the West Bank. While Lander was released with a warning, he reports that dozens of other international and local volunteers remain in custody.
Why it matters
The incident highlights ongoing tensions in the West Bank and the risks faced by international observers and activists involved in agricultural support efforts.
Lander says dozens remain in Israeli custody after being detained while helping Palestinian farmers harvest olives.
x whatsapp-stroke copylink google Add Al Jazeera on Google info Democratic congressional candidate Brad Lander speaks during a vigil led by Israelis for Peace to commemorate the third anniversary of the October 7 attacks, in New York City, the United States, October 7, 2026 [Sarah Yenesel/EPA] By Tamara Khandaker , Andrew Hirschfeld and Reuters Published On 21 Oct 2026 21 Oct 2026 United States Democratic congressional candidate Brad Lander says he has been released from Israeli military custody with a warning after being detained alongside dozens of volunteers helping Palestinian farmers harvest olives in the occupied West Bank.
But several dozen others, including rabbis and international volunteers, remain in detention, according to Lander, who called for them to be released immediately after the incident Wednesday.
Headlinne story · 6 newsrooms
Israeli Forces Detain Brad Lander and Dozens of Activists at West Bank Olive Harvest
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