'Awarta, Beit Furik, Eliyahu Crossing, Huwwara, Jit, Za'tara (Tapuah), Sat 9.7.11, Morning
Translation: Suzanne O.
Za'tara/Tapuach Junction
9:30 a.m.
In contrast with previous Saturdays there are no police or soldiers at the junction. There is heavy traffic.
Huwwara roadblock
10:15 a.m.
The roadblock, which was closed last week for repairs, is open for traffic.
The soldiers and the police we are used to seeing on Saturdays are not here now.
As usual: heavy traffic.
Awarta roadblock
10:30 a.m.
The yellow barrier is closed again and it is very quiet here, as if the extremely heavy traffic of the previous weeks was a figment of our imagination.
Beit Furik roadblock
11:00 a.m.
There are no soldiers at the roadblock. We drove a little further and didn't see any soldiers on the continuation of the road to Nablus, which we sometimes do.
On Road 60 my colleague suggested that we drive into Yitzhar (or perhaps it was Gilad's farm?) "Why shouldn't we go in when there is such a large sign outside saying 'Welcome'?"
It sounded so reasonable when she said it… perhaps another time, not on Saturday.
We drove by Jit, Al Funduq, Jinsafut, Azzun – and saw not one military jeep. It appeared to be very quiet.
Farmers set up stalls at the side of the road; we stopped to buy fruit and vegetables from them.
At Eliahu Crossing the password 'Tel Aviv' opens the crossing immediately, ID cards are not inspected.