Abu Dis, Ras Abu Sbitan (Olive Terminal), Sheikh Saed, Tue 23.12.08, Morning

6:55  Sheikh Sa'ed

 

The group of border policemen at the checkpoint is new, they don't know us. They radio for permission to let us through the checkpoint into the neighbourhood.  Permission is quickly granted.  Traffic was light, including school children, and crossing took place without special problems.

 

7:55  Zeitim Crossing -- the Palestinian side

 

The checkpoint was almost empty.  On the way from El-Azaria to the checkpoint we tried to look into the matter of demolition orders served to some of the homes close to the checkpoint for the purpose of widening the road, as reported by Palestinians at the checkpoint.  As far as we could make out from the home-owner who received the order, it was issued by the Beth-el DCO, but is in the process of retroactive confirmation and payment of fines.  The home-owner sounded relaxed and said all was being taken care of.

8:30  The protest tent in Wadi Joz

Two fairly spacious tents, side by side, were put up this week.  In one there is a group of European activists with at least one local person involved in the struggle.  This person, whom we recognize from previous visits, says there is still public interest and that people drop in to support them.