The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs is working to secure the release of several Italian activists who were detained today by the Israeli authorities near the village of Kafr Ni’ma, in the West Bank, whilst they were taking part in activities to support Palestinian farmers harvesting olives. The arrest is reported to have involved several international volunteers, including, it is understood, four Italian activists and two Italian journalists: definitive checks are still being carried out to establish the exact number and identities of the Italians.
The Embassy of Italy in Tel Aviv and the Consulate-General of Italy in Jerusalem have approached the Israeli authorities to request the immediate release of their compatriots, seek clarification on the circumstances of their detention and ensure that the necessary consular assistance is provided.
The group of activists is currently at the Modi’in Illit police station. Tomorrow morning, they are due to be transferred to the centre at Ben Gurion Airport designated for foreign nationals awaiting repatriation, ahead of the start of the deportation procedures, which will take place on the first available flights.
