Since 2001 we have observed dozens of army checkpoints on paved and unpaved roads in the West Bank, the Jordan Valley and along the Separation Fence; Civil Administration offices which grant permits to Palestinians; and military courts trying Palestinian prisoners. We stand at the checkpoints observing the behavior of soldiers and Palestinians without interfering, intervening only when soldiers behave offensively to Palestinians. Then we try to speak to the soldiers themselves or telephone...

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Abu Dis, Container (Wadi Nar), Thu 23.2.12, Morning

Date: 23/02/2012 ,Morning

Observers: Shosh H., Yael Y., Michaela R. (reporting)

Abu Dis (the Wicket)

Lazarus Checkpoint/Gate (east of the former “wicket”)

Construction of the wall in the Abu Dis area blocked all the gaps that allowed people to cross from al-Ezariya to the neighbourhoods of Abu Dis and Ras al 'Amud that are located within Jerusalem’s municipal boundary. The Lazarus checkpoint is a gate in the wall adjacent to the Lazarus Monastery. Until 2011 it had a door for pilgrims to al-Ezariya and for the monastery’s kindergarten pupils from al-Ezariya. The crossing is currently closed, but the site has infrastructure for conducting inspections.

Close description

Wadi Nar

We drove through Al Ezaria. At the first roundabout turn left and continue to the Wadi. At the Wadi turn right, then take a left at the first turning. From here a very steep but good road continues, with very little traffic. At the top you reach a T junction, where you turn left and continue straight until you reach the checkpoint. At the checkpoint, vehicles travel in both directions, without checks.

Large packs of dogs roam the entire area -- scary and dangerous.