Bethlehem (300), Tue 29.5.12, Morning

06:40 am, Bethlehem – Checkpoint 300 (Rachel Crossing):

almost no vehicles; two buses waiting for workers. 

Mutual greetings and smiles.

It was pleasant to observe the easy hastening to a day of labour.

The parking lot was closed at both ends, we don't know why.

We met a young man waiting to exit, and to our inquiry were told that his ID had been appropriated. I asked the female soldier for the reason and was told that inquiries were being made. Before long the young man's ID was returned and he could leave for work.

At ten minutes to seven there was a massive influx of people from the inspection room in the direction of the exits. These were merchants who can enter Israel from seven o'clock. Together with them a group went through the humanitarian crossing. The exit was relaxed, with right of way for women and children.

We left at 7:15.