Abu-Dis, Zeitim CP, the Container 24.3.06.Friday AMObservers and reporting: Michal Z., Efrat B., Claire A., guests: two French journalists.Abu-Dis13:00-09:00 – Almost no BP and the picture is similar to that of last week. People pass without being stopped, almost a free atmosphere, no tension, no fear, people smile and greet us.At the high wall, east of what used to be the Pishpash, there is still a narrow opening though a low block of stone has been added, presumably to prevent cars from crossing (see the report dated Friday 17th of March). Obviously the thought as to what will happen when they add the last block and there will no longer be any passage is very troubling. One man tells us that soon they will be completely blocked and will not be able to pass anywhere.Most of the shift was dedicated to conversation with and explanations given to the two French journalists. One of them has been living in Jerusalem for almost two years and works for the French radio station RTL. The second is a special correspondent, an expert on Africa going soon to South Africa. Three years ago he was here and had interviewed Michal in Bethlehem. Now he was sent specially for the elections. He is preparing a large article and following their meeting and touring with us they will go to Bet El.Today they were in luck – they met with a team with two French women and the conversation was all in French. They questions were mainly regarding MachsomWatch, the wall, Israeli public opinion, the predicted results of the coming elections, our despair compared to our faith in the ability to do something despite it all, contacts with Palestinians, etc.At the monastery we encountered a priest from Congo who had arrived a few months ago. For the first time there is someone there who is willing to talk to us. The priest spoke French, explained how the monastery was divided (there are sections for women and children, others for men). He expressed his astonishment at the wall and asked (mainly himself) how these children will be able to pass when it is completed. He said this wall is not just a physical entity but also “a wall in the hearts of people”. He avoids the question of why the soldiers are allowed to enter, saying he “does not know, he is new here” (he probably felt he had gone too far in his criticism). According to him there are discussion with the army going on regarding the continuing of the building.Zeitim CPAt the new CP, Zeitim, we are refused entry and so are the journalists. “The terminal is also under closure”. A man, waiting for his daughter who is married to a Palestinian from East Jerusalem, arrives. He has a blue ID. She is waiting for a family unification permit.Container We notice two soldiers on the road below. They are checking two men and sending them back towards the CP. At the CP itself there is a long line of vehicles in both directions. No movement. As soon as we get closer, two soldiers come out of the booth and begin to signal the cars through.At noon, back at Abu-Dis – people still pass and there is no BP.