'Azzun 'Atma, Eliyahu Crossing, Habla, Shomron Crossing, Tue 12.2.13, Afternoon
A mini-intifada in Azzun
13:00 Habla. The gate opened on time. The first five people enter for inspection. They cross to Habla in five minutes. A pickup truck and two tractors, one of them loaded with seedlings, exit the village. They’re followed by a shepherd and his flock. All the Palestinians who arrive go through without delay. We hear about yesterday morning’s strike which was already reported on yesterday. A large group of Palestinians refused to cross because of the female MP’s behavior toward one of them.
13:20 Eliyahu crossing. No lines in either direction. A number of cars being inspected.
13:30 Azzun. The street is livelier than usual. Shops are open, pupils returning from school. Many vehicles on the main road.
We visit Z’s shop. After we give him the parcels, here’s what he tells us: About a week ago, children threw rocks at settlers’ cars. One rock hit and injured a woman. On Saturday night, dozens (perhaps hundreds) of settlers came to Azzun, threw rocks at homes and blocked the entry road. Villagers left their homes and burned tires. Many soldiers arrested the settlers. A number of Azzun residents were injured. A sort of local intifada.
This evening, Monday, we were told there was a new disturbance(Tomorrow’s shift should take note).
14:00 A military vehicle comes from the track leading to the guard tower, near Azzun.
We turn south, enjoying the white blossoms on the flowering trees and the green landscape.
We drive via Tulth, Siniriyya and Bidiya. We enter shops and a pharmacy, looking for someone who speaks Hebrew or English, but with no luck today.
We continue south. Red roofs of Yaqir, Revava and Nofim on the hillside.
We get on Highway 5 and drive west.
15:20 Shomron gate. A short line. Three cars being inspected.
15:30 Azzun Atma. The checkpoint is quiet. Everyone who arrives crosses quickly. A Palestinian who works at a quarry in the area says he believes there’s a great deal of confusion at the checkpoint when the military unit is replaced. It takes time for the new soldiers to learn their job and stop showing how tough they are. After they know what’s going on and no longer have to make an impression the crossing goes smoothly, without problems. The occupation routine.