January 22, 2003

Soldiers at Daybreak in Bethlehem

[Bethlehem, West Bank] An early blast woke me before Islamic morning prayers. I hoped it was a nasty thundercloud nearby, and I tried to go back to sleep. Another blast followed not too long after that. I went out on my balcony was not surprised to see visitors in our neighborhood. Six jeeps or trucks, and maybe twenty soldiers. They stayed an hour or two and then they left. I didn't notice if they were joined by any of my neighbors.

Soldiers making themselves at home.

The sign of good taste?

Soldiers watching.

The sunrise was beautiful.