Qalandiya

Ar-Ram, 9:10 – Almost no pedestrians
and only few cars, which are allowed through quickly, going south.
Free traffic to the north.

Qalandya, around 9:30

South – very quiet. Very few people going north, not being checked
at all. Two trucks waiting.

North – about 20 people waiting in line to go south. 4 soldiers at
the point, but the older one (‘humanitarian volunteer’) is checking
IDs. The line grows quickly (we counted 7 more in a few minutes)
but the atmosphere is very quiet and calm. No tension or anger at
all, in spite of the bad weather. Green and orange IDs with permits
are let through, and in case there is no permit, according to the
soldiers, they may also be let through by their opinion and after a
short but thorough check of bags. Two other more soldiers are
checking the cars. There are around five cars in line, and each
needs to show driver’s ID and baggage so it takes no more than 2-3
minutes.We are told that Jaba’a is completely blocked for vehicles,
and that merchandise is not allowed to Ramallah area (samiramis).
But empty trucks may enter. On our way back, more cars at Ar-Ram,
but again there isn’t any special delay.