Hashmonaim (Ni'ilin), Makkabim (Beit Sira)

Hashmonaim, Na’alin

05:15  Many people emerge from the inspection lane.  Laborers waiting for rides to work gather in the parking area and by the roadsides.  Some people tell us the crossing went quickly and smoothly, one says they’re still worried about possible health effects of the scanner.  He also says that it would be good if the female inspectors, who are short-tempered, would act more politely.  We promised to pass his comment to the people in charge.

We went to the Palestinian entrance to the checkpoint.  We timed how long it takes someone from the moment they arrive at the checkpoint to go through the inspection lane and out to wait for a ride – 22 minutes.

We returned on the improvised path through the vehicle checkpoint.  A guard asks for our identification.  We ask to speak to the person in charge, who allows us to cross.  We ask about the scanner and the behavior of the female inspectors.  He opens the door to the inspection late which appears pretty innocent, fairly standard, a metal detector at the entrance and a package scanner, and a side room that was completely empty.  We didn’t quite understand what people were afraid of.  Perhaps something we’re unaware of.

He also promised to talk to the female inspectors.

06:35  Maccabim.  About thirty vehicles wait by the roadside.  Despite the late hour, many laborers complain about congestion and confusion at the checkpoint.