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...

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Deir Sharaf, Huwwara, Za'tara (Tapuah), Thu 4.2.10, Afternoon

Date: 04/02/2010 ,Afternoon

Observers: Ruthie R. Yehudiet L. (reporting)

Beit Furik

east of Nablus at junction of Route 557 (apartheid road forbidden to Palestinians, leading to Itamar and Elon Moreh), and Route 5487. Checkpoint has operated since 2001, seemingly serving residents of Beit Furik and Beit Dajan. In practice it only serves the residents of the settlements. One of the three permanent checkpoints that close off Nablus, together with Huwwara and Beit Iba.

Close description

Natanya translating.

A cold and rainy day.

14.00 The entrance of Zeita-Jamaiem is closed and locked up as usual. It is now more than two years.

14.05 Checkpoint Za'tara. There are soldiers at the posts. While we were there we saw many cars passing without being checked.

There were army cars along the roads.

14.19 Checkpoint Huwwara. Many cars on the road going to and from Nablus. Two minibuses are stopped to have IDs checked. The passengers stay seated in the cars.
The rain is pouring down. Every now and again cars are allowed to pass without being checked.
Next to the checking post cars enter Nablus. A car with Israeli license plates is stopped for a short time and then goes on to Nablus.

14.45 Deir Sharaf/Chaviot CP. There are no soldiers. ( A photo is enclosed).

From the direction of Shave Shomron an army Hummer. A patrol car.