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 28.1.10, Morning
28/01/2010 ,Morning
Shosh H., Michaela R. (reporting)
Sheikh Saed
6:50 Sheikh Saed
We encountered few people on our arrival.
Shortly thereafter, pupils started to arrive, and with them the problems. Generally, children cross this checkpoint without checks, and without lines forming. Today every child is checked, if his bag beeps he's required to lift it to the high counter in front of the guard and show a permit. Some of the little ones had trouble lifting their heavy bags, and the procedure took time. Some did not have a permit, and they were sent home.
The line grew rapidly, although there were few adults. Attempts to negotiate with the the soldier were useless. He was working on his own, and if there were others around, they remained invisible.
At some point he got tired of checking and let the children through without bother, despite the beeps from the magnometer. The arbitrary nature of occupation prevented those pupils who had arrived early from reaching their schools. Had they come later, they would have crossed without impediment.
7:45 The Pishpash
The work has not been completed -- no one seems to be in a hurry. The little ones still have to struggle up the tall steps then down again.
Sheikh Saed 20.07.10
