She used to live in this neighbourhood, but the constant checkpoints and restrictions and harassment- by both the soldiers and settlers alike- became too much. She moved out, and now goes back to visit her mother and those of her relatives who stayed.
The woman and her mother and relatives invite us to their home. They serve us cups of coffee and juice, as well as sweets. Palestinian hospitality is something that is legendary, however little people have and whatever stress and problems they go through (many of which are unimaginable to most of us in the West), they will share what they have and will feed you and host you like you are family.
There are some small children playing in the house, the oldest of whom looks no older than seven.
The women tell us that the children have been attacked by settlers in the past, and have been hit by them.
Three weeks ago, as the Muslim holiday of Eid was wrapping up, Israeli soldiers refused entry to guests who wanted to visit the family, managing to disrupt the celebration.
We spoke some more, and they agreed to have their story shared. For understandable reasons, they did not want their names or photos to be shared or taken.
We gave them our business cards, asking them to call the next time there are problems. We then left.
A Palestinian woman and a small girl walk uphill in Tel Rumeida. Like in some other parts of H2, only Israeli settlers and military/police can drive cars.
This is more than just a racist annoyance, it has also taken lives.
Our friend Hashem, who I met two years ago and faithfully served his community in Tel Rumeida, had a heart attack in his home last year. He was unable to get to an ambulance, since no Palestinian vehicles- including medical ones- can drive there. He was taken to checkpoint 56 by friends who had to carry him downhill. There were clashes happening that day, and there was teargas in the air.
Hashem collapsed and died.
One of the checkpoints that Palestinians entering and leaving Tel Rumeida must go through. Each person has a number that they must memorize.
Instead of names, numbers.
There have been other historic parallels, and it is scary to think about.
Israeli soldiers guarding the checkpoint (previously, one of them was in the booth. The apartment looming above the booth was the former ISM apartment.
We really miss that place, and our Palestinian neighbours.
Something we found on the ground in Tel Rumeida. Another Israeli Army gift to our neighbours.
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