Anata-Shuafat, Issawiya
In general: Another difficult morning. The soldiers and border police believe with all their hearts that they are toiling on behalf of security. But the impression is all of cruel collective punishment, spreading hatred and frustration. We all know where this is leading.
Issawiya, near French Hill
When we arrived, an orderly row of men arranged itself on one side of the concrete blocks and waited. On the other side, children, women and the elderly crossed without inspection. The younger people displayed ID's and continued on their way. It seems the soldiers were bored and tired of this activity, and later almost anyone who arrived was allowed to cross without inspection.
Again the heart aches at the sight of an older sick man, who has difficulty climbing up the steep road, assisted on either side by young men.
Issawiya, the gas station on the old road to Ma'aleh Adumim
Concrete blocks prevent the passage of all vehicles, but pedestrians cross without inspection. The vehicles cross through the nearby lot, after inspection. We could not make out who was allowed and who forbidden to cross.
One of the border-policemen talked to us. He was offended by the suggestion that there was an abuse of human rights, saying that he greets with a "good morning" every newcomer who looks reasonable. And occupation? Well, according to him, all the world's states are occupied....
Issawiya, opposite 'Adumim Fortress'
This is the only exit for vehicles from Issawiya -- only one lane for entry and exit. Most of those entering are not checked, and an effort is made to prevent jamming of the main road. Those leaving are checked slowly, those checking are in no hurry to go anywhere. It was hard to estimate the length of the traffic jam.
We parked on the left, near another block on a dirt road leading to a car-wash place. The men inspecting left their post and came to send us away, saying politely that we were in the way. We insisted on being told whose way, and why. When we asked to park our car near the dumpster, we were refused because there were "no parking" marks (red and white) on the pave-stones. We remained where we were, and tried not to laugh too much.
Shuafat checkpoint
A horror