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<p>We are troubled by the increase in settler violence. Many recent incidents – including
assaults on Palestinian farmers, the setting fire to olive trees and stealing of produce
– have coincided with the Palestinian olive harvest, which began earlier this month.
We condemn any incidence of violence by settlers against Palestinians. Under international
law, Israel, as the occupying power, has an obligation to take all measures in its
power to protect the Palestinian population from acts of violence. Officials from
our Embassy in Tel Aviv raised the increase in settler violence with the Israeli authorities
on 30 October. We have stressed the importance of the Israel security forces providing
appropriate protection to the Palestinian civilian population. We welcome the efforts
of Israeli authorities to address settler violence, and urge them to thoroughly investigate
every instance and bring those responsible to justice. We are also clear that no human
rights or aid workers should be at risk of violence and that they must have the protection
they need from the responsible authorities to allow them to do their jobs in safety.</p>
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