Rabbi says IDF arrested her, others while "acting out Jewish values" in West Bank olive harvest

Brad Lander, a Democratic candidate for US Congress representing New York's 10th district, was detained on October 21, 2026, by Israeli authorities near Bethlehem in the West Bank while helping Palestinian farmers harvest olives. Lander, who is Jewish and has been critical of Israel’s policies, was part of a group of approximately 90 volunteers, including rabbis and international activists, that was detained for several hours before he was released with a warning from the IDF (Israel Defense Forces). The incident occurred as Israeli forces stated that the harvest had not received prior approval, posing security risks near an Israeli community. Rabbis for Human Rights and other rights groups called for the release of those still in custody. Lander’s detention highlights tensions over Israel's control of Palestinian land and its impact on civilian activities like farming.