Qalandiya

5:00-6:45: The line extended into the parking lot.

Arriving, all the turnstiles were operating and all the checking points were functioning. The people on line reported a 30-45 minute wait.

The humanitarian gate first opened at 6:25 but then the soldier in charge reopened it every five minutes, even for single pupils. A family of four kids, apparently their first time at the CP, took the regular line and we diverted them to the humanitarian, where they passed through in a matter of two minutes.

Several times we remarked to the girl soldier at the aquarium and to the MPs, that more people could be directed to the turnstiles. Our advice was well received.

The line contracted as of 6:45.  We timed the crossing  - 13 minutes.

The square was somewhat cleaner than it had been last week, but the stench from the toilets is awful.

We left at 7:20, with short and fast lines moving along.