Bethlehem 15.1.2004 Watchers: Natanya G., Ayala S. (reporter) Bethlehem 14:45. Peaceful and quiet, efficient passage of a handful of people and few vechiles. An inner puddle was bridged over by some broken planks that allowed passage within the checkpoint. We were allowed to pass through (first time in months) and walked back (toward Jerusalem) along the usually inaccessible main road. El-Khadr Spoke to some drivers who said they hadn’t been bothered for quite some time now. They of course carry the diverted traffic off the main road. Halhul Junction As above. Ezyon DCO 16:30. Scores of waiting people. Only one window in service though two more opened in our presence. Complaints centred particularly on the problem of unexplained “refusal of magnetic card”. We listed a few of the “refused” (Name, ID No, Tel No) and will give them to Tsili. Ezyon checkpoint Buses passing through efficiently after presenting documents. Buses are nearly the sole means of transportation for Palestinians that we encountered during the afternoon along road 60 (a car or two, and taxis running the Halhul – el-Arrub stretch).Strange experience!