Israeli Checkpoints Surrounding Jerusalem
The city of Jerusalem is heavily surrounded by a series of military checkpoints and a separation wall, which significantly restricts the movement of its residents. These checkpoints serve as barriers, isolating Jerusalem from its neighboring towns and controlling access to the city. The most notable checkpoints include:
- Qalandia Checkpoint: Located north of Jerusalem, this checkpoint separates the city from Ramallah and is one of the busiest in the area.
- Hizma Barrier: Situated northeast of Jerusalem, it isolates the town of Hizma from the northern parts of the city.
- Shuafat Checkpoint: This checkpoint, also northeast of Jerusalem, separates the Shuafat refugee camp from the city.
- Anata-Issawiya Checkpoint: Connecting the villages of Issawiya and Anata, this checkpoint is located northeast of Jerusalem.
- Leader's Barrier: Found east of the city, it facilitates transportation for residents of Al-Eizariya and Al-Zaim.
- Mount of Olives (At-Tur) Barrier: This barrier separates At-Tur from other parts of Jerusalem.
- Sheikh Saad Checkpoint: Located southeast, it separates the Sheikh Saad neighborhood from Jabal Mukaber.
- Valley of Fire Barrier: This checkpoint does not lead to Jerusalem but separates the central and northern West Bank from the south.
- Psalm Barrier: Located south of the city, it isolates Bethlehem and Beit Sahour from Jerusalem.
- Bethlehem Checkpoint (300): This checkpoint separates Bethlehem from Jerusalem.
- Tunnel Barrier (Beit Jala): Serving as the main southern entrance to the city, it is restricted to settlers and Jerusalem ID holders.
- Entry Barrier: Isolating the village of Walaja from Jerusalem, this checkpoint is located southwest of the city.
- Beit Iksa Barrier: Located northwest, it isolates Beit Iksa from Jerusalem and the West Bank.
- Bedouin Barrier: This barrier isolates several villages northwest of Jerusalem from the city.
- Pocket Barrier: Also located northwest, it separates additional villages from Jerusalem.
- Prophet Samuel's Barrier: Connecting Nabi Samwil with surrounding areas, this barrier is located northwest of the city.
- Ofer Checkpoint: This checkpoint connects Jerusalem with West Bank settlements and the coastal plain cities.
- Beitunia Barrier: Serving as a commercial crossing, it is located northwest of Jerusalem.
These checkpoints not only restrict movement but also contribute to the ongoing tensions in the region, affecting daily life for many residents.
Impact on Residents
The presence of these military checkpoints creates significant challenges for the residents of Jerusalem and surrounding areas. Daily commutes for work, education, and healthcare are often prolonged due to the long wait times and security checks at these barriers. The isolation imposed by the checkpoints has led to increased frustration and resentment among the local population, further exacerbating tensions in an already volatile region.
Conclusion
The series of military checkpoints surrounding Jerusalem exemplifies the complexities of life under occupation. As residents navigate these barriers, the implications for their daily lives and the broader geopolitical landscape remain profound. Understanding the impact of these checkpoints is crucial for comprehending the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the challenges faced by those living in the region.
