Back to reports search page

Sansana, Tue 20.11.07, Afternoon

Place: Meitar checkpoint / Sansana
Observers: Patti & Nurit S.
Nov-20-2007
| Afternoon

We arrived at the terminal crossing at 16:15.  There were very few workers returning at this hour. They were dropped off at the parking lot and then ran to the checkpoints inside the terminal.  We peeked in and saw that every thing was fast moving – the men passed through in 15 seconds.  Even when there were more workers returning at 4:30, there were no queues.

This is a new, modern check point, but the filth surrounding the building is shocking. Nahal Hebron, which has long since ceased to be a river, is now an open sewer which flows on the other side of the fence along the pathway between the parking lot and the terminal. The stench is horrid. It’s bad now, in the heat it must be unbearable. The areas of greenery along the way are completely full of trash.

We decided to return next week at 5 a.m. to observe what happens when many workers want to pass through.

  • Meitar checkpoint / Sansana

    See all reports for this place
    • 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
Donate