Stories of Palestinian farmers who continue to stand by their land

Palestinians have been living under Israeli military occupation and violence for decades. This includes the farmers of our partner cooperative, Al Reef, in the West Bank, who produce organic olive oil, Medjoul dates, and maftoul couscous.

The situation has deteriorated significantly in recent years. Land is being seized, settlements are expanding, and violence is on the rise. In 2025 alone, more than 11,000 olive trees were destroyed. Checkpoints and roadblocks are making access to fields increasingly difficult.

Yet farmers carry on working. Because farming is more than just a livelihood: it is identity, dignity, and a form of resistance. The olive tree symbolises that connection to the land — caring for the trees is a refusal to disappear.

Discover the stories of four farmers and the people behind Palestinian produce.

Between unsold oil and water shortages: Abdulrahman Zaben, olive grower from Mazare’ Al-Nubani

Abdulrahman saw his harvest go unsold and water become increasingly scarce. Yet he remains committed to his land and finds hope in fair trade, which is bringing his product back into the spotlight.

“When my olive oil reaches Europe, I feel proud. It used to be sold as Israeli olive oil. Now it is recognised as Palestinian olive oil.”

Harvesting under pressure: Thameen Badah, olive farmer from Farha

What was once a moment of joy is now a race against time. Violence and mounting risks are forcing farmers to harvest earlier. Some are leaving their land… but Thameen is staying.

“We are rooted in our land. We will not leave it, unless we leave this life.”  

Between water scarcity and hope: Zaidan Anouz, date farmer from Al-Jiftlik

For Zaidan, water is the biggest struggle. Control over water sources and restrictions on movement mean his farming is under constant pressure. Yet, through organic farming and fair trade, he has found a path from survival to greater stability.

“Since I switched to organic farming, the yield and quality of the fruit have improved… and I can see that reflected in my income.”

Fair trade as a lifeline: Yousef Fayad, wheat farmer from Zababdeh

Yousef has been growing wheat for over twenty years to support his family. Despite climate fluctuations, rising costs, and an unfair market, he remains committed to his land. For him, farming is not a choice, but a means of survival.

“We are not asking for higher prices. We are asking for a fair price that will enable us to keep our land and continue as Palestinian farmers.”