Bethlehem: Israeli forces on Tuesday set up a military checkpoint at the main entrance to the western rural area of Bethlehem governorate, disrupting traffic and causing severe congestion. A local source reported that the checkpoint was established in the Al-Shurfa area, known locally as "Al-Shouli," at the main entrance to the towns of Battir and Nahalin and the villages of Husan and Wadi Fukin.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency, Israeli troops stopped and searched vehicles and checked the identification documents of passengers. This action resulted in heavy traffic delays, hindering residents from reaching their workplaces, educational institutions, and other destinations on time.
The source noted that Israeli forces frequently set up checkpoints in the Al-Shouli area during peak morning and evening travel hours. These checkpoints often delay residents for extended periods, increasing the daily hardships faced by Palestinians commuting to and from their homes.