
Salfit: September 27, 2026
The local committee for the "Olive 2026" national olive-harvesting campaign in Salfit Governorate held a preparatory meeting at the Governorate headquarters. Chaired by Salfit Governor Mr. Mustafa Taqatqa, the meeting was attended by the Director General of Salfit Agriculture Directorate, Eng. Ibrahim Al-Hamad, alongside directors and representatives from relevant official, security, and civil society institutions and municipalities. This meeting took place within the framework of national preparations led by the Ministry of Agriculture—in coordination with various partners—aimed at ensuring the success of the olive harvest season, supporting farmers, and protecting their lands and crops.
Governor Taqatqa emphasized the importance of integrating efforts and coordinating roles among the various entities participating in the campaign. He highlighted the need to devise appropriate plans and programs that protect farmers and bolster their steadfastness on their land in the face of attacks by the occupation and its settlers. He also stressed the importance of a successful olive season, noting it as a vital source of income and livelihood for a large segment of the governorate's population.
In coordination with Salfit Agriculture Directorate, the meeting discussed field arrangements for the season. This included determining the time and location for the central olive-harvesting event—to be organized with farmers on their own lands—as well as discussing measures to facilitate the operation of olive presses and provide necessary support to farmers throughout the season, ensuring that harvesting operations proceed in an organized and safe manner. Emphasis was also placed on the importance of citizens and farmers adhering to the olive-harvesting start date set by the Ministry of Agriculture—scheduled for October 15, 2026—and complying with relevant agricultural instructions and guidelines.
Participants underscored that the olive season represents a national milestone extending beyond mere agricultural and economic dimensions; it embodies steadfastness, resilience, deep-rooted attachment to the land, and a commitment to national resources.
The Ministry of Agriculture continues—through its directorates, field teams, and local committees across various governorates—to lead and implement the "Olive 2026" national campaign plan. This effort is conducted in partnership with official, security, and civil society institutions, municipalities, and relevant stakeholders to unify efforts, coordinate field responses, enhance farmer protection, and ensure access to their lands and crops. The initiative aims to ensure the season's success, recognizing it as a fundamental pillar for farmer resilience, land protection, and the strengthening of food security and the Palestinian agricultural economy.