Bethlehem, Etzion DCL, Tue 19.8.08, Afternoon
Etzion DCL: Today the computers worked despite of the heat. When we arrived there were about 30 people in the waiting room, waiting for a magnetic card, about 10 more, where inside in a more advanced processing stage.
We arrived at 3 pm and by 5:30 pm, when we left, everyone who was initially there was admitted. Initially nine people were admitted according to an internal agreement among the waiting people. Then there was no more admittance for about half an hour and people became agitated. Then tensions erupted when someone tried to steal the line.
Tedsa, accompanied by another soldier, entered the hall and had all 22 people waiting enter the upper hall. For a half hour no one came out.
Two people came with a permit for family reunification issued by the ministry of interior. However, the army computers did not have the updated information. After some back and forth, it was suggested to issue them a temporary humanitarian permit. They were given a 3 day permit; hopefully this will be fixed.
When we left there were still 10 people inside waiting for magnetic cards. Many GSS restricted people did not receive magnetic cards (at least 10). They were referred to Sylvia - good luck.