Waiting for a new bus... On Sunday, we started our northward journey from Jerusalem to Tulkarem - two cities that are roughly 60 kilometres apart - at 12.30. As Ecumenical Accompaniers (EAs), we are supposed to travel with Palestinian public transportation as part of our accompaniment mission.
On the way to Ramallah we passed one checkpoint (Israeli military control posts where soldiers check permits and can search cars and people) without any problem. In Ramallah we changed buses, and after waiting half an hour for it to fill up, we were on the road again.
But then the trouble started. Flat tyre. Closed roads. Hold-ups at checkpoints. We finally arrived in Tulkarem at 17.30, after five hours. I've realised that patience and a sturdy bladder are indeed virtues in this place. The Palestinians have plenty of the former, but I'm not sure how I feel about that yet. Which is better - resistance with the risk of retribution or compliance so that everyday life runs smoother but nothing ever changes?
By restricting the freedom of movement, Israel is paralyzing the Palestinian society on so many levels. Connection between economic and social centres are cut off. It is impossible to build and develop a society that is geographically fragmented. And at the same time, the Israeli settlers (illegally living on Palestinian land according to international law) travel on their own roads built by the Israeli authorities, without any checkpoints and road blocks.
Our house in Tulkarem
However, when we finally arrived we were warmly welcomed by the current Tulkarem team with a delicious meal. And our flat was great, especially considering the general standard in the West Bank. But most importantly, being the only girl, I get my own bedroom...
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