Afternoon

A few pedestrians, a lot of traffic northward, loose atmosphere. A special lane is established parallel to the usual one that which stretches from the north towards the checkpoint. It is for Jews only and for Palestinians who live in Beit Hanina probably, so they can take the left turn into their neighborhood, we witnessed a very long line of cars stretching beyond what the eye can grasp, and through this empty lane, Jews pass freely and quickly. Qalandia South:Two soldiers checking cars, no conspicuous hindrances and pedestrians and cars alike pass rather smoothly, until the soldiers at the upper post (for some obscure reason) shout something, and immediately the two lines were stopped. There were rude orders to move back, and only later allowed to move on. Qalandia North:Movement flowing, two volunteer women, one man, one regular army. There is an overall patronizing, racial and absurd atmosphere. Cursory checking of cars, but it is a half an hour wait for each car, at least. When it is time to break the fast, again we see this lovely scene of people bringing dates and bottles of water for the waiting Palestinians. We too were offered to partake.