Sansana (Meitar Crossing), Sun 21.7.13, Afternoon
Translator: Charles K.
14:30-15:40
Since our faithful driver was unavailable, and in order not to miss a “work day,” we went to observe and speak to laborers returning from work in Israel.
Many were already coming back at 14:30, and many more continued to arrive until we left at 15:40. Some of them told us that this morning there was a great deal of congestion during the entry procedure. In addition to the thousands who “usually” go through, people also came who used to cross via Tarqumiyya. That crossing is so intolerable, so inhuman, that some prefer to go south to Sansana, which takes longer and is farther away (and more expensive), and after crossing to Israel to go back north to the areas in which they work – Ramla and Lod, for example.
Some of the laborers also traveled in the opposite direction, from Palestine to Israeli territory. They’re on the night shift at the bakery in Ofakim. May Israel’s conscience and common sense begin working again, if only to improve the shameful, disgraceful, contemptible conditions at Tarqumiyya.
Ramadan Karim.
Meitar checkpoint / Sansana
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Meitar Checkpoint / Sansana The checkpoint is located on the Green Line and serves as a border crossing between Israel and the West Bank. It is managed by the Border Crossing Authority of the Defense Ministry. It is comprised of sections for the transfer of goods as well as a vehicle checkpoint (intended for holders of blue identity cards, foreign nationals or diplomats and international organizations). Passing of Palestinians is prohibited, except for those with entry permits to Israel. Palestinians are permitted to cross on foot only. The crossing has a DCO / DCL / DCL / DCL (District Coordination Office), a customs unit, supervision, and a police unit. In the last year, a breach has been opened in the fence, not far from the crossing. This breach is known to all, including the army. There does not appear to be any interest in blocking it, probably as it permits needed Palestinian workers without the bureaucratic permits to get to work in Israel. Food stalls and a parking area economy have been created, but incidents of violent abuse by border police have also been recorded. Updated April 2022
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