I have wanted to write about Qasr al-Yahud since 2016, when I first heard of the plan to clear its minefield. Tradition holds Qasr al-Yahud to be the spot where Jesus was baptised by John the Baptist. At Qasr al-Yahud, though, I can’t help but feel just the smallest bit optimistic. Photograph: Dalit Shacham for the ObserverBefore my visit to Qasr al-Yahud, I make house calls on some of those with a stake in what’s happening there. Thrillingly, I have him to myself for 40 minutes: a clear sign of how important the work at Qasr al-Yahud is.

Source: The Guardian December 09, 2018 07:52 UTC