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Bethlehem, Etzion DCL, Tue 27.5.08, Morning
Place:
Bethlehem (300)
Etzion DCO
Observers: Ruth E., Aviva W., Rama Y. (reporting)
06:30 AM, Bethlehem CP. Five checking posts were open. The soldiers worked efficiently (no phone conversations), and still, it was not enough – the lines were long, people were nervous, and the crowding on the other side insufferable as usual. At around 07:15 the pressure began to dwindle, and by 07:30 the CP was almost empty on both sides.
Once more, Bethlehem CP is not built for the passage of such multitudes, even when every thing works as it should.
07:50 AM, Ezyon DCL. Twenty people were waiting. The DCL opened on time.
Bethlehem (300)
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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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Etzion DCO
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serves residents of Bethlehem and surrounding villages who need magnetic cards, work permits for Israel, permits for one-time entry for religious or health reasons, various police permits, etc.
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