Checkpoints and Cement Blocks Hinder PRCS’ Operations in occupied Jerusalem

(Jerusalem – 1/11/2015): Israeli military checkpoints and cement blocks erected throughout occupied Jerusalem  hinder the humanitarian services of PRCS including those of the emergency medical services center and of the hospital in Al Souwwaneh.

Mahmoud Elayan, Director General of PRCS/Jerusalem, affirmed that despite their distinctive Red Crescent emblem and sirens, ambulances are deliberately delayed by Israeli occupation forces by 30 minutes on average, especially at the two checkpoints located near PRCS’ premises on the Mount of Olives. These measures hinder to a large extent emergency ambulance services in the city. Moreover, the number of patients at the city’s PRCS’ hospital has shrunk by a third due to these numerous checkpoints and roadblocks.

He also said: “Palestinian patients are increasingly opting for Israeli hospitals despite the security risks involved. This is due to the tight measures imposed on them at checkpoints where they are sometimes even forced to strip. Furthermore, PRCS’ staff are searched daily at checkpoints near the Society’s premises in Al Souwwaneh, with employees delayed between 30 and 60 minutes due to monstrous traffic jams caused by these checkpoints”.

Israeli occupation forces have erected around 40 checkpoints throughout Jerusalem, including cement blocks, partial roadblocks and permanent police checkpoints.

PRCS affirms that these checkpoints and roadblocks violate basic human rights enshrined in International Humanitarian Law and International Human Rights Law, including the right to receive and access regular and emergency medical care.

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For further information, please contact Ms. Erab Fuqaha, PRCS spokesperson – Ramallah headquarter, mobile: 972 – 599251116 or tel: 972 2 2978520 ext 2741