Since 2001 we have observed dozens of army checkpoints on paved and unpaved roads in the West Bank, the Jordan Valley and along the Separation Fence; Civil Administration offices which grant permits to Palestinians; and military courts trying Palestinian prisoners. We stand at the checkpoints observing the behavior of soldiers and Palestinians without interfering, intervening only when soldiers behave offensively to Palestinians. Then we try to speak to the soldiers themselves or telephone...
Abu Dis, Sheikh Saed, Thu 4.3.10, Morning
04/03/2010 ,Morning
Yehudith S., Michaela R. (reporting)
Sheikh Saed
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A plot confiscated, an orchard damaged -- long live security?
6:50 Sheikh Saed
Quiet, a few cross rapidly.
The Pishpash
In the enclosed structure, checkpoint architecture is sprouting, surrounded by turnstiles. At present the building fulfills no function.
Towards 8:00 the toddlers are wending their way towards the kindergarten in the monastery. They have become expert at negotiating the metal steps taller than their little legs.
We heard the sad story of the Abu-Rumi family. Their plot abuts the street leading to the Pishpash on one side, and on the other the patrol route along the wall. 35-40% of the land has been confiscated for the construction of the wall and the road. On the other side of the wall, a piece of land remains but it's not accessible. Anyone who sees the lay-out will understand the sheer arbitrariness of the wall's route -- the extent of land appropriated could easily have been reduced. The road works and construction have damaged the fruit trees on the land the family still hold.
According to Abu-Rumi, electric gates are planned along the patrol route. A type of inner checkpoint??? They have takent he matter of land confiscation to court several times, paying lawyer's fees out of their own pocket. They are alone in this campaign -- no solidarity, no support, only indifference, including on the part of of the Palestinian authority.
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Sheikh Saed 20.07.10
