Temporary International Presence in the City of Hebron TIPH

 

TIPH is an international civilian observer mission. TIPH assists the parties in the normalisation of the situation in the city and reports on their efforts and the breaches of the agreements on Hebron and international law. TIPH reports to the Palestinian and Israeli authorities and to the six member countries.

 
 

In Charge of the Security

Christian IN

Almost every day Christian Santoro, an Italian Carabinieri, patrols the streets of Hebron, either on foot, or in one of TIPH’s patrol cars. Usually a TIPH patrol consists of one member with military or police background, and one who is proficient in either Arabic or Hebrew.

As an observer with a police background Christian is in charge of security, able to handle the occasions when a patrol might find itself in a tense or threatening situation. Previous experience from other missions has proven to be very useful for his work at TIPH, says Christian.

—I am used to being sent on different missions. For me, the job in Hebron is as important as when I am working in Italy. There are many challenges, but I like to meet new people and work in different environments.

TIPH patrols throughout the city of Hebron, both on foot and by car. According to our mandate, TIPH has freedom of movement within the defined city limits. A big difference compared to his work back home in Italy is that Christian, being a civilian observer, cannot get involved when he sees someone breaking the law.

As Carabinieri he is trained to intervene when faced with a crime scene. The transition to work as an observer, without this ability, was somewhat demanding, Christian explains.

—It is just a different way of working. Here I am observing, working only with a camera and writing reports.

When he is patrolling in the Old City he often meets people who want to speak with TIPH observers about issues, or just have a chat. Christian knows the most common phrases in Arabic, but wishes he communicate better.

—One of the great challenges is the language barrier. I wish I was able to talk more with the people living here, Christian explains.

Another reason for coming to Hebron is his interest in being a part of, and getting to know, new cultures.

—I enjoy working in a mission which also takes a great interest in the community, and in humanitarian issues. TIPH not only observes and reports; we also deal with community relations, and are a part of society.