IDF Condemns Rabbi's Ruling Permitting Olive Harvesting on Palestinian Land
The IDF sharply criticized Rabbi Dov Lior's religious ruling permitting West Bank olive harvesting on Palestinian land, warning it encourages violence and theft.
IDF Criticizes Rabbi Lior's Olive Harvest Ruling
The IDF sharply criticized a religious ruling published by Rabbi Dov Lior, which permits the harvesting of olives in Palestinian-owned groves in the West Bank. A security official stated that the military views the letter with utmost gravity, warning that it encourages violent offenses, theft, and friction.
Security Concerns Over West Bank Clashes
The ruling was issued amid ongoing violent clashes during the olive harvest season. Recent documentation showed masked individuals attacking Palestinians and a Washington Post journalist attempting to access their lands. Security sources previously emphasized that unauthorized harvesting on private Palestinian land constitutes criminal theft.
Differing Rabbinical Positions
Earlier in the week, rabbis from the Gush Etzion Religious Council issued a ruling strictly forbidding Jews from picking olives in nearby Arab-owned groves, citing prohibitions against theft. However, Rabbi Lior countered this stance, claiming that owners who cannot access their groves due to security reasons are considered to have relinquished ownership, thereby permitting the harvest.
"Harvesting olives in the Holy Land is completely permitted, and even carries a special virtue considering the security dangers," wrote Rabbi Lior.
