Two weeks ago, on November 15, a shooting incident initiated by Palestinian gunmen left eight soldiers and four armed Israeli settlers dead, along with three gunmen.  In the aftermath, we, the Christian Peacemaker Team, (CPT) have suffered with those who have reaped the consequences on a scale the world does not understand.

Loud explosions from tanks, helicopters, and gunfire were heard the entire night of the shootings.  Friends called us.  "We are all safe," we said.

We gave our heartfelt condolences to Israeli settlers.  They thanked us, but on the night of the burial they attacked us.

We gave our condolences to the soldiers both in letter and word.  They thanked us.

We witnessed 130,000 people under curfew for this crime and the curfew continues.   "We have to teach the Palestinians a lesson!" the soldiers said.

We witnessed the destruction of houses of innocent people, leaving over 100 people homeless.  "Why are they punishing us for something we did not do?" the people asked.

We spent many nights with terrified Palestinian families living close to the area the settlers now claim.  We saw the pillage of ruined vehicles and smashed windows in the surrounding neighborhoods.  Palestinians were (and continue to be) too frightened to move or speak loudly in their houses.  "Thank you for staying with us," they said.

We heard the sounds of bulldozers at 3:30 AM, smashing cars, tearing up vineyards, and fruit trees to construct a new settlement road.  "Please take pictures of my demolished car," a tearful man pleaded.

The Israeli army did not allow the Red Cross and the Civil Administration to deliver food in the market where we live, so we helped purchase and deliver food for hungry families.  "Thank you!  Thank you for the food!"  the families said.

We agonize with those who informed us that fifteen Palestinian houses are to be demolished and an Israeli settlement expanded within Hebron.  "We must make good on this window of opportunity for settlement growth," Ariel Sharon said.  Land is cleared but houses have not yet been demolished.  Your continued letters are helping.

We accompanied the Israeli Committee Against House Demolitions (ICAHD).  They are banned from Hebron.  We accompanied foreign journalists.  "We appreciate your help," they said.

For those of you around the world who search for justice and peace; for those who pray and support the work of CPT; for those who give us words of encouragement; we, CPT in Hebron, give deepest gratitude in this season of thankfulness.