Oranit, Habla

We were glad to hear the Palestinians today saying how satisfied they are with the soldiers, and saw the young soldiers behaving respectfully and matter-of-factly to the local population.  A nice surprise.

The shepherd complained it’s been four months that he hasn’t been allowed to bring his flock through to graze on his land beyond the checkpoint, as he’s been doing for years.  He’s now given up on the DCL and the army and had no choice but to rent a grazing area.  Another minor example of an existence completely controlled from above, with no rhyme or reason.

12:30  Gate 1447 – Oranit

Palestinians gradually arrive on their way home.

12:55  The army arrives.  The Palestinians get up from where they were sitting in the shade, because now the soldiers were in the shed.  It takes about ten minutes to set up the laptop computer and begin inspections.

Few people go through; the crossing goes relatively quickly.

The Palestinians have many good things to say to the soldiers who are here today.  They criticize a female MP who isn’t here and the soldiers know immediately whom they’re talking about – they say she’s been reassigned.  The soldiers also say that they’re a different unit this week.  That’s why the Palestinians are being treated well – there are good days and bad days, though even the good days aren’t so great.

13:35  Gate 1397 Habla

The gate’s already open, many waiting to leave Habla for the plant nurseries.

The shepherd complained it’s been four months that he hasn’t been allowed to bring his flock through to graze on his land beyond the checkpoint, as he’d done for years.  He’s now given up on the DCL and the army and had no choice but to rent a grazing area.

It’s very hot and everyone’s standing in the sun.  The pumping house is locked.  The shepherd’s brother transports a cart filled with vegetation to feed the sheep.

13:45  The school bus, bringing the children home from school, goes through.

14:05  We left when no one remained on line.

Eliyahu gate – A few cars being inspected; no one on line.

No soldiers are stationed today at the entrance to ‘Azzun.