BEthlehem CP 300, El Khadr,Beit Jala,ETzion CP,Etzion DCL

Bethlehem and surroundingsObservers: Rachel F., Hela Y., Valeria S., Nora B. (reporting) Hugh photographer6:30 – Bethlehem checkpoint – The road has been repaired. We were received, at the checkpoint, by a rude voice through the megaphone, ordering us to park at another place. 3 women told us that border policemen at jeep # 22537, had not let them pass, were very rude to them and insulted them (bitch, and so on), specially one called Moshe. We got close to the jeep: indeed they were rude, they said no one is called Moshe and that they had not insulted them. Hela heard them tearing papers. They said these were photocopies of identity cards which Palestinians were not allowed to submit.At the checkpoint itself, there were 3 detainees (freed before we left), no cars waiting to enter toward Bethlehem, about 10 waiting in the opposite direction. Queue of about 30 pedestrians. The checkpoint commander, Ani Abu Rish, generally correct, was very rude this morning. As usual, he did not allow us to get close to the checkpoint, wouldn’t give us any information regarding today regulations, and of course not regarding the coming elections.7:15 – Beit Jala – About 15 cars waiting to enter towards Bethlehem, and 5 in the opposite direction. Routine checking. Correct soldiers and also them, have not received any instructions regarding elections.8:00 – Etzion checkpoint – Checking of cars done according to the soldiers considerations. When they considered someone suspect, they give his identity details to the GSS and wait for their instructions. They also have not heard about changes towards the coming elections.8:10 – Etzion DCL – Deserted. Windows opened. 3 Palestinians being taken care. The Police window still shut, though it was posted that it opens from 8:00 to 10:00. The soldier on the roof, said he will arrive soon. He was cooperative, could not explain why the DCl was empty and said yesterday it was full of people.8:30 – El Khader – an army jeep, without any intervention. Full of taxis. Still mud and water from last rains. It is obvious that passing this barrier on rainy days, is terrible!