'Anin, Barta'a-Reihan, Tura-Shaked
05:45 – Barta'a Checkpoint
On our way to the Palestinian side of the checkpoint we saw a lot of people waiting for rides underneath the awnings and on the sides of the road. We were surprised to see a vehicle from the Palestinian security company at the entrance to the parking lot and a Palestinian attendant, who only allowed a selected few to enter the parking lot with their vehicles. Others who had to park outside were walking on the road or getting out of taxis. The parking lot itself looked like an orderly construction site that was fenced in, overlooking the security road and the terminal. Evidently they are adding four more turnstiles and sleeves. The west side of the parking lot is being run as usual. There was only one turnstile and a long line of workers on their way to work in Israel.
When we drove back we were asked to show our ID cards and were sent to the shed where vehicles are inspected. All the bags of used clothing that we brought were checked with the X-ray machine before we were allowed to cross.
06:15 – Barta'a Checkpoint
Five inspection booths were open and people were crossing quickly. There were two large potted plants next to the small shaded waiting areas in the upper parking lot.
06:15 – A'anin Checkpoint
The checkpoint opened on time. We gave the bags of clothing to the first people who crossed. A few dozen men, two women, children and two tractors crossed. An elderly man who we know told us that his son, who has an agricultural permit, was arrested in Um al Fahem for remaining in Israel illegally. Since this was the second time this has happened the probation that he was given the first time was implemented. He was given 90 days in prison together with a fine of NIS 3,000. The father managed to get NIS 2,000 from someone and he now needs another 1,000 while his son is in prison. Otherwise his son will have to remain at Shata Prison for an additional month.
07:10 – Tura – Shaked Checkpoint
There was little traffic and it was moving slowly. People were waiting near the turnstile to cross to the seamline zone. The garbage container had been emptied but there was litter scattered around the area.
We left at 07:30 and gave a person who works in Barta'a a ride.
