An American Democratic Party congressional candidate was arrested while picking olives in Israel.
Brad Lander, a Democratic congressional candidate, was detained by Israeli forces while assisting Palestinian farmers in olive harvesting in the West Bank. Approximately 80 volunteers were arrested near Bethlehem after working for two hours. Lander, who previously served as New York's financial controller, stated that their activity was lawful and criticized the occupation as a violation of international law. The group included citizens from various countries, and they aimed to protect farmers from settler violence. The exact reasons for their detention remain unclear, and recent attacks by settlers against Palestinians have increased. U.S. officials have called for action against settler violence.