The Israeli occupation forces continued today to suffocate many areas in the north and east of the occupied West Bank with checkpoints that cause long delays for residents and people commuting on the roads. In the northern Jordan Valley, the occupation forces continued for the 22nd day to man al-Hamra checkpoint located at an intersection connecting northern West Bank cities with the Jordan Valley. Cars are stopped as the papers of occupants are thoroughly checked resulting in a long line of cars waiting to cross the checkpoint and long delays for people trying to reach their destinations. Another checkpoint at Tayaseer intersection also in the northern Jordan Valley causes long delays for people trying to cross it. Further south, the Israeli army continues to man checkpoints at roads leading into the ancient and tourist city of Jericho for the second week in a row. Long lines of cars are also seen waiting to enter or leave Jericho, considered a top touristic destination for Palestinians and visitors at this time of the year. The checkpoints have caused many people to avoid going to Jericho, which, according to local officials, have caused that city’s economy millions of dollars in losses. In the north of West Bank, and specifically at the town of Hawara, south of Nablus and a scene of a recent pogrom by Jewish extremists, the army has intensified its checkpoint at the main road that connects the north and the south of the West Bank, stopping and checking cars and passengers and causing long lines of cars waiting to cross the checkpoint.

Source: Palestine News & Information Agency (WAFA)