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Bethlehem (300)

Place: Bethlehem (300)
Tags: Passage Restrictions Transfer Permits to Israel
Observers: Clair Oren, Translation: Naomi Gal
Jul-29-2016
| Morning

9:10-11:15

This week, as well, there are more people prevented than usual, but less than two weeks ago.

Again Palestinians, used to pass with no problem, arrive and discover that GSS decided to change their plans for the weekend.

A man about 45 years old discovers he is not allowed to pass on Friday. He can pass all weekdays, as explain to him the soldier and the security guard, but not on Friday. He doesn’t understand why and is positive it can be sorted out and he’ll be able to pass since he has an appointment in Nazareth, but to no avail.

Too crowded, only 2 windows are open, a queue forms time and again, and there is no one to talk to about opening another window.

A group is crossing over to Bethlehem.

Two European activists arrive from there and are very excited to see my tag; they want to hear about MhasomWatch.  

 

  • Bethlehem (300)

    See all reports for this place
    • Located adjacent to the Separation Wall ("Jerusalem Wrap") at the north entrance to Bethlehem, this checkpoint cuts off Bethlehem and the entire West Bank from East Jerusalem, with all the serious implications for health services, trade, education, work and the fabric of life. The checkpoint is manned by the Border police and private security companies. It is an extensive infrastructure barrier and is designated as a border terminal, open 24 hours a day for foreign tourists. Israeli passport holders are not allowed to pass to Bethlehem, and Palestinian residents are not allowed to enter Jerusalem, except those with entry permits to Israel and East Jerusalem residents. Israeli buses are allowed to travel to Bethlehem only through this checkpoint.
      The checkpoint, which demonstrated harsh conditions of crowding and extreme passage delays for years, started employing advanced electronic identification posts and has upgraded its gates' system as of the middle of 2019  - and conditions improved.
      Adjacent to the checkpoint, in an enclosure between high walls and another passage, is the historic Rachel's Tomb, which is now embedded within a concrete fortified building. It contains prayer and study complexes for Jews only, as well as a residential complex. updated  November 2019   .
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