'Anabta, Ar-Ras, Jubara (Kafriat), Qalqiliya, Tue 20.5.08, Morning
6.30
The Eilyahu crossing. From the car it seemed that about 200 people were waiting to enter Israel behind the fences.
6.35
Little movement and things were quiet. A large announcement from the
army speaks of a business meeting in Bethlehem on the 21-23 May. And
that in honour of that, anyone who had a permit such as was painted on
the sign could enter without being checked.
8.15 to 8.45
.Little movement and things are quiet. The taxi drivers cannot make a living
9.00
Jubara
The soldier comes quickly and willingly to open the gate. We
are surprised. At the exit gate 2 was opened for us by workers of the
"police of the passages" who were wearing yellow glowing bullet proof vests. They also arrived quickly.
9.10-9.30
ID is checked and also the cars but slowly and slovenly. Three soldiers
who are rather bored ask in excellent Hebrew "Where are you from? Is
the car yours?" They laze around with the drivers. Time is no object
for them. There is no interest or desire to allow people to pass and
get on with their lives.
A taxi driver and his passengers wait 20 minutes for their IDs to be checked by phone and only then go on their way.
20.05.08 בוקר