Special units are learning how to use sophisticated explosive detection devices and are receiving instruction on how to distinguish between an x-ray image of a hair dryer and a pistol.
"There is a tension between the need for strict security checks and a desire not to hinder the lives" of Arabs, Brig.-Gen. Mickey Bar-El told the Associated Press. He said one of the objectives of the training is to reduce the contact between IDF soldiers and Arabs. "We want the Arabs to go through the checkpoint without being touched by human hands within three minutes" he added.
The soldiers also are receiving courses on ethics, human rights and Arab culture in face of criticism of insensitivity. The soldiers’ task of providing security includes finding weapons and explosions often carried by Arab women and children.
"The machines can only take you so far," said Maj. Omri Shabtai. Showing an x-ray machine that displays a silhouette of a rifle cartridge hidden in a bag, he said the machines are not an answer by themselves. "Ultimately, it is the skill of the person that counts," he explained.
The new procedures are designed to ease passage for Arabs who often protest their frustration at delays. The new technology will allow suspects to be isolated in a blast-proof room where soldiers can observe them through windows.
Many of the soldiers are anxious to start working. "We are the ones who are going to be stopping the attacks," said Private Eyal Ashtamker.
"There is a tension between the need for strict security checks and a desire not to hinder the lives" of Arabs, Brig.-Gen. Mickey Bar-El told the Associated Press. He said one of the objectives of the training is to reduce the contact between IDF soldiers and Arabs. "We want the Arabs to go through the checkpoint without being touched by human hands within three minutes" he added.
The soldiers also are receiving courses on ethics, human rights and Arab culture in face of criticism of insensitivity. The soldiers’ task of providing security includes finding weapons and explosions often carried by Arab women and children.
"The machines can only take you so far," said Maj. Omri Shabtai. Showing an x-ray machine that displays a silhouette of a rifle cartridge hidden in a bag, he said the machines are not an answer by themselves. "Ultimately, it is the skill of the person that counts," he explained.
The new procedures are designed to ease passage for Arabs who often protest their frustration at delays. The new technology will allow suspects to be isolated in a blast-proof room where soldiers can observe them through windows.
Many of the soldiers are anxious to start working. "We are the ones who are going to be stopping the attacks," said Private Eyal Ashtamker.