Abu Dis, Ras Abu Sbitan (Olive Terminal), Sheik Saed, Silwan, Mon 13.6.11, Morning
6:45 Sheikh Saed
Today, those passing through the checkpoint are having their names and personal information recorded. This means that the more people arrive, the longer the line, although it doesn’t ever exceed 10 people. When things are busy, the checkpoint commander himself pitches in to check IDs, and exempts children and students from this procedure. Given the situation, we decide not to complain, but rather only to ask the comander why the information is being recorded. The answer isn’t surprising: it’s important for security surveillance.
Silwan 7:20
Construction has progressed up the street, towards the City of
street
The same publication openly stated that these infrastructural initiatives were sponsored by ELAD primarily for the City of
The next day, Idit S. sent me an announcement by Shahar Shillo, head of marketing and export for the City of
8:00 Olive Terminal
The situation is exhausting, even though there aren’t that many people waiting. In the lane leading to the District Coordination Office (DCO), a woman waits to get an entry permit for tomorrow to Muksad hospital. We notice, however, a sign in Arabic saying that the DCO is closed today and tomorrow (without explanation).
The sign is posted on the pass’s side wall (why not on the door itself?). After an Arabic speaker confirms the sign’s contents, we call the Chamal - chivil authorities (whose phone number was listed on the sign) and ask what people who need to the DCO should do. Chamal personnel think the DCO isn’t closed. Only when we call again, after 15 minutes, do they confirm this, and direct those who need to the DCO to the one at Qalandiya. We tell the woman, who seems very disappointed.
Wadi Nar (through El Azaria 8:20
El Azaria is filled with lively shops and advertisements. Read Amira Hess’s weekend article on our website, “From the Press,” and you’ll understand why the situation in this city, contrary to appearances, isn’t good. Unchecked crime runs rampant and residents are under constant threat.
At Wadi Nar things remain the same as before, with anticipated traffic changes not yet in effect. Two dogs volunteer to bark at the checkpoint. It’s a job that’s passed down to their pups…