Israel detains US congressional candidate at West Bank olive harvest

On October 21, US congressional candidate Brad Lander was briefly detained by Israeli forces while supporting Palestinian olive harvesters near Bethlehem. Lander, a Democrat expected to win a House seat, criticized the occupation as a crime under international law. The Israeli foreign ministry condemned his actions as a political stunt, claiming he failed to coordinate with authorities. The military cited security concerns over unapproved harvesting near settlements. This incident highlights increasing violence against Palestinians by settlers during the olive harvest, drawing international criticism. Lander's detention reflects broader tensions in US-Israel relations, especially among progressive Democrats.