Israel takes down Nablus blockades
Palestinian motorists drove freely out of Nablus for the first time in six years after Israel eased long-standing travel restrictions in an apparent goodwill gesture.
It was the latest sign of improving cooperation between Israeli and Palestinian security forces in the West Bank.
After years of fighting, Israel has begun to allow Palestinian security forces in the West Bank to maintain law and order in several major Palestinian population centers.
Israel maintains hundreds of roadblocks and checkpoints throughout the West Bank, saying they are needed to control militants. The Palestinians say the travel restrictions have stifled their economy.
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