According to a report in the daily HaMevaser, once again many resident of Betar are complaining of harassment at the border police checkpoint known as Machsom HaAvot as they travel between their community and Yerushalayim.

The residents have been traveling the same route for over a decade the reports states, and never have they been compelled to endure long delays for so-called inspections as is the case today. They explain the delays are causing serious difficulties and upsetting the schedules of many. It should also be noted that buses traveling the Ein Kerem route on Route 375 are not inspected at all. These are buses traveling towards Bet Shemesh and Bnei Brak. They too pass the checkpoint.

The report also questions the procedure, the fact that drivers are compelled to show identity cards, drivers license and other documents, as well as opening the trunk of their vehicles, as is done with residents of the PA (Palestinian Authority) crossing into Green Line Israel. This new procedure has been taking place for a number of weeks with the exception of last week, due to the intervention of Betar Mayor Meir Rubinstein.

Unfortunately, the hiatus was short lived and the inspections resumed on Thursday.
HaMevaser requested a response to the story from police but none was received as the paper went to print.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)