Living in the West Bank: A Jerusalemitan’s Perspective
The term ldquo;West Bankrdquo; is a propaganda term meant to imply that the Jews do not have a claim to the area. Geographically speaking, the West Bank is an irregularly-shaped region located in the central and eastern portions of the Palestinian territories, approximately 9.45% of the area has direct access to the Jordan River.
Settler vs. Palestinian: Two Different Realities
Life in the West Bank can vary greatly depending on whether you are a settler or a Palestinian. Settlers enjoy good roads, no stop-and-search policies, and unrestricted access to water resources. In contrast, Palestinians are subjected to a significant loss of dignity and various forms of harassment by Israeli authorities.
A Jerusalemitan’s Experience in Ramallah
While I do not reside in the West Bank, I frequently visit Ramallah due to my deep connection to this city. Ramallah is a vibrant urban center where life revolves around the Upper Middle Class and the Working Class. The Upper Class enjoys the many cafes, restaurants, bowling alleys, and small malls, while their movement is restricted to the area within the West Bank. They do not have access to the sea, despite Palestine's coastline.
Challenges in Daily Life
Traveling to Ramallah can be challenging, often requiring hours due to multiple checkpoints, heavy traffic, and long lines. However, once you reach Ramallah, life resumes its normal pace. The city offers a blend of traditional and modern amenities, with a vibrant nightlife that caters to diverse tastes. People in Ramallah are warm and hospitable, always welcoming visitors and interested in getting to know them.
Life for the Working Class and Unemployed
Those in the Middle and Lower Classes face significant challenges. Unemployment rates are high, and housing costs are steep. The minimum wage is very low compared to the cost of living. However, there is a silver lining: despite these hardships, many non-Isrealis are restricted from entering Ramallah, which provides some job security. The Lower Class often witnesses the daily harassment by the Israeli army, especially those living in camps.
Occasional Festivals and Events
Ramallah hosts occasional summer festivals that celebrate music and culture, often featuring amazing live performances and local beers. These events are a source of joy and community, bringing people together to enjoy a sense of normalcy in the face of ongoing challenges.
The Geographical Reality of Yehuda and Shomron
Geographically, the area known as the West Bank is actually called Yehuda and Shomron. For the Israeli government to make the difficult but correct decision, the area should be annexed, and modern infrastructure should be built. Additionally, disarmament of PA terrorists and the provision of incentives to hostile Arab Muslims to move to the actual Palestinian state, Jordan, would greatly improve life in the area. Until that happens, life in Yehuda and Shomron remains in a state of limbo.
Until the difficulties are addressed, life in the West Bank will continue to be a muddled mix of complexities and challenges for all those who live there.